National Apprenticeship Week – Spotlight on Ellen
This week marks National Apprenticeship Week, and we’re excited to shine a spotlight on our brilliant apprentice architect, Ellen Eyre!
Ellen joined our practice last summer and has quickly become an integral part of the team—bringing her skills to projects, supporting colleagues, and making the most of networking opportunities.
The apprenticeship route to becoming an architect is a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience while working towards qualification, and Ellen is a great example of how valuable this path can be.
We asked Ellen a few questions about her experience so far:
What is an architectural apprenticeship, and how does it differ from the traditional university route?
An architectural apprenticeship is an alternative route into the industry that allows you to gain practical experience while working towards qualification, rather than following the traditional full-time university pathway.
What are the benefits of choosing the apprenticeship route in architecture?
The apprenticeship route bridges the gap between practical experience and academic study. It makes architecture more accessible, allowing you to earn a salary while learning, develop industry knowledge and connections, gain real-world experience, and avoid student debt!
What does a typical week look like for you as an architectural apprentice?
My typical week involves one day at Northumbria University and four days gaining hands-on experience at S+SA Architects. This setup allows me to engage in design projects, strengthen my research skills, and develop a deeper understanding of the architect’s role—all with support from Northumbria University and my industry network.
What attracted you to a career in architecture?
I have always been fascinated by how the built environment shapes the way we live, work, and connect with one another. The opportunity to design spaces that positively impact communities and enhance people’s quality of life is what truly inspires me.
What’s your favorite part of your role?
I love working collaboratively and seeing different ideas come together through design. At S+SA, I enjoy the opportunity to work across multiple sectors, gaining experience in everything from design to construction.
