White Ink Architects: A proven track record in mentoring the brightest talent

White Ink Architects are a practice of highly trained individuals who not only enjoy the process of designing and constructing buildings, but also sharing knowledge in a nurturing, enjoyable environment.

Their people make their business, and they deserve every credit as they won the Best Education, Trainee or Apprentice Programme – SME.

Championing an ethos of continual learning, White Ink Architects aim to ensure that students gain experience across all aspects of architecture.

Their student outreach extends to all stages of education including links to university, placement opportunities, funded professional accreditation and continued CPD throughout working life.

Continuous learning and development is an important part of their culture – recognising and nurturing the talent and ambitions of students in the architectural community is central to their ethos.

White Ink Architects has a dedicated education team within the office who have compiled a series of initiatives to provide training in areas of architecture not typically captured in the university curriculum.

In doing so they seek to bridge the gap between education and professional work. Key initiatives include annual participation in university networking events for architecture and architectural technology courses, an annual participation in professional insights program to host undergraduate students for

guided work experience and much more. In their submission, White Ink Architects said: “Our strategy targets learning for students and architects at every stage.

“We ensure that this occurs in a motivating way to offer a positive transition between education and work. Annually we employ four-six students and introduce them to the everyday life of an architect.

“So far, we have mentored 35 students – many who have since become permanent members of staff.

“Continuous learning and development is a vital part of this firm’s culture, where recognising and nurturing the talent and ambitions of students in the architectural community is central to its ethos.”

“Our student programme gives an insight into the professional role of an architect – ranging from on-site activity, working with other professions, and interacting with clients.

“We have found this a very effective way to link education to professionalism whilst keeping us engaged with the future generation of architects.

“We are keen that the relationship is ‘two-way’ and encourage them to influence the way we deal with advances in the industry.”