The Royal Institute
of British Architects (RIBA) has launched the National Schools Programme – the
UK’s first nationwide architectural learning programme for schoolchildren.
The programme
partners schools with expertly-trained architects (RIBA Architecture
Ambassadors), who volunteer their time to deliver bespoke and creative,
curriculum-linked workshops for children aged 4-18. The programme is free
of charge to schools, thanks to the generosity of its supporters.
The RIBA’s National
Schools Programme will help thousands of children to explore and understand the
built environment – its impact on people and communities; how it is shaped and
developed; and why good design is important.
Architecture is not
a subject that is taught as part of the school curriculum. The aim of the
programme is to foster a generation that understands the impact and importance
of excellent architecture and is inspired with the confidence, knowledge and
skills to make their voices heard.
The launch of a
comprehensive nationwide programme follows a successful pilot phase that
engaged a diverse range of 18,000 young people, many from disadvantaged
backgrounds, in over 200 schools across England. The pilot was delivered by 349
Architecture Ambassadors from 170 architecture practices.
RIBA President Ben
Derbyshire says: "The RIBA believes that everyone has a part to play in
shaping their built environment, and we are committed to empowering young
people through this nationwide programme.
"The huge
enthusiasm and commitment of the individual architects and their practices in
giving their time to make this programme possible is impressive. We are proud
that our pilot project has already reached 18,000 young people, all over the
country, and we look forward to inspiring thousands more.”
The RIBA’s National
Schools Programme offers a bespoke variety of workshops, matched to the
individual needs, resources and interests of the school. For example, projects
can involve exploring the local area and understanding key issues affecting the
local community.
Projects in the
pilot phase have included huge large-scale models made of bamboo and proposals
for creating ‘a city of the future’.
