Architecture Practice Network
Building Inclusive Pathways into Architecture
Join the SLDF Architectural Practices Network; connecting students with quality placements, supporting diversity in the profession, and funding scholarships for future architects.
Why this network matters
To qualify as an architect in the UK, students must complete three stages of study and training. After their first degree (Part 1), they are expected to spend at least one year working in practice before progressing to Part 2. A further year of practice is then required after completing Part 2, before students can advance to their final Part 3 qualification. While some universities allow students to move directly into Part 2 due to the difficulty of securing placements, this highlights the significant gap the sector must address.
For many students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, gaining access to respected practices remains one of the biggest challenges in this journey. Limited networks, bias in recruitment, and the lack of visible role models all create barriers. Even when placements are secured, students may struggle to feel included, supported, or able to see their own lived experiences reflected within the profession.
The SLDF Architectural Practices Network has been created to change this. By bringing together a collective of committed practices, we provide students with equitable access to placements in welcoming, inclusive environments, while also funding scholarships and bursaries that support their progression through every stage of architectural study.
How It Works
Becoming an architect in the UK is a long journey, requiring not just academic study but meaningful professional experience. Students must complete:
Undergraduate degree
followed by at least one year in practice
postgraduate degree
followed by a further year in practice
final qualification
leading to registration as a fully qualified architect
These two years in practice are essential. They allow students to apply their learning, develop their professional identity, and gain the confidence needed to succeed in the profession.
The SLDF Architectural Practices Network bridges this gap by:
- Partnering with leading practices to create structured, inclusive placement opportunities.
- Supporting students both after Part 1 and after Part 2.
- Ensuring placements are welcoming, supportive, and fairly paid.
- Using membership fees to fund scholarships and bursaries, reducing financial barriers to progression.
This model ensures that talented young people are not lost between stages of study and that the profession benefits from the full range of creativity, experience, and perspective that diverse voices bring.
Membership Tiers
Supporter Partner
£1,000/year
Placement Partner
£5,000/year
LEADERSHIP Partner
£10,000/year
Sponsor scholarships, advisory role, recognition at national events.
Impact
For Students
- Equitable access to paid, high quality placements after both Part 1 and Part 2.
- Supportive, inclusive environments where they feel welcomed and represented.
- Scholarships and bursaries to reduce financial barriers to progression.
- Greater confidence and readiness to continue their journey to Part 3.
For Practices
- Access to a more diverse pool of future architects.
- Support and training to embed inclusive recruitment and mentoring.
- Recognition as leaders in equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Opportunity to contribute to systemic change in the profession.
For the Sector
- A stronger, more diverse pipeline of architects shaping the built environment.
- Recruitment practices that reflect equity and fairness across the industry.
- A profession that better reflects and serves the communities it designs for.
- Embedding Stephen Lawrence’s legacy into the heart of architecture.
Alignment with Stephen’s Legacy
Stephen Lawrence dreamed of becoming an architect. His life and legacy remind us of the importance of creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that young people can thrive in careers where they are often underrepresented.
Get Involved
