Anna is an Architectural Assistant at Peak Architects and currently studies our MArch Architecture higher degree apprenticeship programme - working towards a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) qualification.

Prior to starting her degree apprenticeship, Anna studied our undergraduate BA (Honours) Architecture programme. 

“I graduated from an Architecture undergraduate course at Sheffield Hallam and started working at Peak Architects as an Architectural Assistant in 2019. I wanted to continue my university education but felt I was getting valuable experience working in practice. Therefore, I made the decision to apply for the degree apprenticeship.

“My time at Peak Architects has given me the opportunity to see a project through all work stage’s, from the initial consultation meeting with clients, developing concepts, producing detailed building regulation drawings, creating tender drawings packages, and working with contractors to completion on site whilst administering contracts. It has been a fantastic opportunity to experience first-hand the running of projects in practice and coordinating information with external consultants.

“I work on a range of projects in sectors such as heritage, conservation, residential and commercial. I work with Architects, Architectural Technologists, and Architectural Assistants within the company. Together, we are working on defining business development goals for the practice.

“Since starting the apprenticeship, I have developed skills through the RIBA work stages. From working on concept sketches to taking projects on-site with technical drawings. I have developed skills that include sketching and learning software programs such as Revit to develop 2D and 3D drawings.

“I communicate directly with clients and work alongside Ecologists, Heritage Specialists, Structural Engineers, Planning Consultants, and other professionals within the natural and built environment industry. This experience has increased my confidence and communication skills.

“The university assignments have broadened my understanding of the profession as a whole. I’ve developed my research skills through further reading and field trips.

“Studying the apprenticeship has been challenging yet rewarding. I am able to balance my university research and theoretical work whilst working on live projects with a real budget and time constraints.

“It is great to have the opportunity to work and study at the same time. The apprenticeship opens up an accessible platform that enables students to financially support themselves, whilst gaining the required qualifications and continued professional development in practice.

“Throughout my experience at Peak Architects, I have taken multiple projects through the planning process, some of which have been challenging such as a Grade II Listed Cottage and a Grade II Curtilage Listed Barn in the Peak District National Park.

“The apprenticeship has taught me the importance of being part of a team.”

“There is no I in team, we effectively work together to resolve challenges and take opportunities. The apprenticeship has taught me the importance of being part of a team. Every colleague contributes their skills and knowledge to ensure the business runs successfully.

“My greatest personal achievement is that I have met my practice goals and achieved client deadlines whilst also completing my university assignments successfully.”

“I look forward to using the skills and knowledge that I have developed in my four years of experience in practice and university to work towards my final qualification of becoming an Architect.”