Ds keen on architecture -- any advice on comparing courses and drafting PS?

[kittybelle]

That's it really....no family or connections to architecture to allow us to find out more. He has just started 6th form -- so I imagine he needs to get out and get involved in activities or do stuff that can be ref in PS?

Any other creative ideas or insights welcome?

Son has just started 2nd year at Oxford Brookes and absolutely loved his 1st year. Incredibly hard work, in studio by 7am every day with his friends but loved every minute.

He did A level maths, physics and history but subjects dont really seem to matter, just grades. But he also did AS art in lower 6 to get a really good portfolio which included paintings, drawings of buildings, photos, lots of other stuff to show creativity, imagination, enthusiasm etc. Check on-line for other applicants' portfolios.

He also found some work experience for the Easter and summer holidays of 1st year 6th, simply by e-mailing all the local architecture firms.

If you want any more info, let me know. Good luck!

This may be a good place to start for ideas

believe architecture is a 7 year commitment

Brilliant - thanks for your insights -- had read about the portfolio - but didnt know what it should comprise of - so will have a look online as suggested.

Kittybelle. I would look at the Bath University Architecture web site. This gives you what they are looking for in a personal statement and the fact they want Maths/Science/Humanity combinations. I think, therefore, subjects DO matter. I cannot see them offering a place to someone with English, French and Psychology A level for example! They also like artistic skills and even suggest a foundation course prior to the degree. I think Bath is very highly rated for this subject and are very choosy, but they set the standard for what your DS should be studying, what work experience and inspiration he should be obtaining and what artistic skills he should have. Other universities will demand less, no doubt, but I would start by trying to aspire to the best and meeting their criteria.

Also meant to say Bath stress they do not use portfolio evidence if it is submitted. Therefore you need to do your homework on which university you aim for because a portfolio is a huge amount of work and, if not necessary, is a massive waste of time.

Thanks Milly - just looked at Bath this afternoon - standard offer A*AA -- no interview no portfolio - just offer based on PS (work experience etc) and academics - ie suggests additional AS and A2s! Looks more techi that UCL/Bartlett.

But the course looks great as it is run with engineering and also has integrated paid placements and amazing industry partnerships.

Would love to do the course myself!

I believe that subjects do matter but that may depend on the university he chooses.

What I will say is make sure that he chooses a course which is accredited by RIBA, this will vastly improve his employment opportunities. This is probably more important than the university he goes to. For example London South Bank offers a RIBA accredited degree despite it being a pretty shoddy university (I go there haha)