Huge congratulations to BDN’s latest, newly qualified architects, Adam Lennox and Aaron Fitzakerly, who have successfully completed their RIBA Part III exams.

Adam and Aaron have studied together side by side on the Architect Degree Apprenticeship programme at Northumbria University, balancing four days each week in practice and one day at university, all while working towards a Master’s degree and their Part III examinations over a four-year period.

As well as studying together, Adam (Building Design Northern – BDN) and Aaron (Fitz Architects) are also now working alongside each other following the successful integration of Fitz Architects into BDN to provide an all-encompassing, full service ‘one-stop-shop’ capability to clients.

Adam and Aaron are just two of many employees starting out on their career journeys that BDN has supported through professional training, development and investment. The architecture, civil and structural engineering and project management practice, which has offices in the North East and North West of England, is now working closely with regional universities to encourage the next generation of architects into the industry and create new opportunities for emerging talent.

Aaron commented, “The apprenticeship route gave me the opportunity to apply everything I learned directly into practice and this has been invaluable. I’m extremely happy to have completed these qualifications and excited to move forward in my career as an architect.”

Adam added, “Carrying out my studies on the Architect Degree Apprenticeship has been fast-paced and challenging, but it’s given me a strong start to my career. The opportunity to balance practice with study and learn directly from senior colleagues at BDN has been invaluable. I’m grateful for the experience and support I’ve had, and I’d certainly recommend the apprenticeship route to anyone considering a career in architecture.”