Join our Architecture Work Experience for Year 12

This course gives you a real taste of architectural study and practice. Through personal design projects and guidance from professionals, you’ll explore what life as an architecture student and future architect could be like—helping you decide whether it’s the right path for you.

Yes, throughout the course you’ll hear from architects and professionals working in the field. They’ll share their journeys, talk about the design industry, and offer advice on routes into architecture, from education to practice.

Absolutely. You’ll meet practising architects and designers during studio visits and sessions. These opportunities to ask questions and receive feedback make the experience a great way to start building industry connections and get inspired by real-world careers.

We recommend that students bring a notepad and pen to take notes (or a device to write on). In addition, students should bring a water bottle for the day. Students do not need to bring lunch as this will be provided but they might want to bring a couple of snacks to eat throughout the day. Please make sure these snacks are NUT FREE to take into account any students that may have nut allergies. Students on certain programmes such as Computer Science, will need to bring their own device. If you have not got a laptop, one will be provided. A specialised list will be communicated nearer to the time.

The work experience programme will take place in central London, with workshops being held in various locations. Industry placement days will be held in top London firms. Any excursions will take place in London or the surrounding areas. If excursions are held out of London, students will meet at a designated location and travel together.

Students opting for the residential programme will stay in Ramsay Hall, part of the University College London (UCL) campus. Students will stay in single occupancy rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Male and female students will be placed in separate floors.

Students will be able to arrive on the Sunday before the start of the programme. There will be a member of the Study Mind team to greet you. Students will check out on the Friday after the programme has ended. If you would like to book an extra night accommodation (e.g. Friday night), please contact us and we can arrange this for you (dependant on availability).

Students can expect to receive a finalised timetable of their work experience week by the end of May. Students will also receive further information on what to pack/bring and pre-preparation materials by mid June so that they can prepare themselves for the programme and get the most out of their experience.

Yes, students can book weeks that are not consecutive. You can pick the weeks that are best for you. If you would like more support in booking weeks, please contact us.

If you are a student who has booked a residential stay for two or three weeks, activities will be arranged for the weekend. Previous excursions have included a day trip to Cambridge, shopping in London and London sightseeing. Details of the exact programme will be sent by the end of May.

If you have not booked accommodation, the work experience week will end on Friday.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where all students feel confident in expressing their creative ideas. Our team ensures that the programme is a safe and welcoming space, and we address any concerns promptly to maintain a positive atmosphere for everyone.

Yes, we aim to make the programme inclusive for all students. If you have specific learning needs or accessibility requirements, let us know in advance and we’ll work with you to ensure everything is in place to support your full participation.

A friendly and experienced support team will be on hand throughout the programme. Whether you have questions about the sessions or need help with a project, we’re here to support your learning and wellbeing every step of the way.

Booking is easy! Simply select the programme, choose your desired dates, and complete your booking through the website. The programme is open to students aged 15-18, and no prior experience is required. If you’re an international student, a good level of English is essential to fully participate in the programme.

Traditional placements can be limited in scope and tricky to arrange. Our programme offers a structured, creative environment with expert-led teaching, studio visits, and hands-on experience that goes far beyond what most work experience placements provide.

Yes, we continue to support you even after the programme ends. We offer guidance with UCAS applications, personal statement writing, and career advice.

You’ll be taught by professionals with real experience in architectural practice and education. They’re passionate about supporting the next generation of designers and will guide you through each stage of the creative process with tailored advice and insights.

This course combines creative exploration with structured studio learning. You’ll develop practical design skills, work on meaningful projects, and receive personalised feedback—all while gaining a realistic understanding of what it means to study and practise architecture.