Associated Architects has joined more than seventy leading organisations from across the built environment in signing the RIBA coordinated letter to Government calling for the age limit for Level 7 apprenticeship funding to be raised from 21 to 25.
This request has been submitted directly to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and senior Ministers.
The built environment sector faces increasing pressure to deliver major national priorities, including 1.5 million new homes, the creation of new towns and progress toward net zero. A dynamic and highly skilled workforce is essential to meet these ambitions.
However, the planned restriction that removes funding for Level 7 apprentices over 21 directly contradicts the need to grow and sustain this workforce.
Raising the eligibility age to 25 would strengthen the sector in several ways. It would support a wider talent pipeline, help students who take nonlinear routes through education, enable those with family or caring responsibilities to earn while they learn, and maintain diversity across the profession.
It would also align with the Government’s stated ambition for two thirds of young people to gain higher level skills by the age of 25.
As an Employee-Owned practice, we believe that accessible, flexible and financially realistic routes into architecture are essential for a resilient future workforce. Apprenticeships provide this balance by combining structured academic study with meaningful experience in practice.
Associated Architects currently supports four apprentices across our Birmingham and Oxford studios. They are progressing through the RIBA validated programmes while contributing to projects across a wide range of sectors. Their experiences underline the value of this route and demonstrate why maintaining access to Level 7 funding is vital.
Bethany Long – Apprentice, Birmingham Studio
“The apprenticeship pathway allows me to continue studying at a high level while gaining real experience in practice. Without this route, it would have been financially difficult to progress.”
Barbara Poczatek – Apprentice, Oxford Studio
“Blending workplace learning with academic study gives me confidence. I can apply university work directly to live projects and feel part of a professional team.”
Harvey Farren – Apprentice, Birmingham Studio
“Raising the age limit would open this opportunity to more people. Many do not reach Part II by 21 and risk being excluded.”
Dylan Godwin – Apprentice, Birmingham Studio
“The apprenticeship model supports my learning style. It removes financial barriers and helps me grow within the profession.”
Limiting access to Level 7 funding would restrict opportunities for young people and undermine the sector’s ability to meet upcoming skills demands. We support the collective call for the Government to raise the age threshold to 25 to ensure a fair and sustainable pathway into professional architectural education.
Associated Architects remains committed to supporting routes that widen participation, strengthen our studios and create opportunities for future architects.
