Model making is a fundamental part of Make’s culture, with the team involved in projects from the concept stage through to construction. This apprenticeship allows Make, as well as other companies around the UK, to continue mentoring the next generation of model makers while fostering greater accessibility and diversity in the profession.
The three-year programme is a Level 6 qualification – equivalent to a bachelor’s degree – providing apprentices with the opportunity to learn model making in a workplace environment, with additional training provided by an associated university. Once the universities have developed courses based on the approved Standard, any company in the country will be able to employ a Model Maker Apprentice.
The apprenticeships have been set up to improve the link between creative companies and academia while also contributing to improving diversity in the profession. The approval of the scheme demonstrates how the industry can work together to make a positive contribution to its development.
Paul Miles, Modelshop Manager at Make, said: “This apprenticeship has been developed by passionate experts and industry professionals to make it as valuable for students as possible. I’ve been lucky enough to mentor various interns, work experience students, and graduates at Make; this apprenticeship is an exciting opportunity to continue this work with hands-on training and practical industry experience.”
Peter Garstecki, Education Manager at Foster + Partners and Chair of the Trailblazer Group, said: “Apprenticeships are essential for us to grow and diversify talent. Since launching our Architecture Apprenticeship Standards six years ago, we have witnessed the immensely positive impact of the programme firsthand and expanded the range of apprenticeships we offer. Developing the new Model Making Apprenticeship was the natural next step, allowing candidates to learn the skills they need to succeed from within this specialist industry.”
Claire Holman, Senior Lecturer of BA(Hons) Model Making at Arts University Bournemouth, said: “Professional model makers possess unique and specialised knowledge and skills, which align perfectly with the apprenticeship ethos of working and learning concurrently. The contribution of apprenticeships to the model making workforce will enhance and broaden the industry’s pool of talented makers.”
