One of the things that make us an architect London clients can trust is we are always happy to display our competency. Every member of the Coffey Architects team is skilful and has passion for their work. So, whatever you have in mind for your project, we can guide you. The building will be far better as a result.

Big change

The architecture world has been waiting for RIBA to reveal how they will introduce new measures to test the competency of architects. They have now revealed the first part of this with the publication of The Way Ahead. This is an introduction to the new framework for the education and professional development of architects if they want to be chartered.

The big change is that architects will now need to complete tests every five years to showcase their competency and professional development. If they fail to do so, they will no longer have accreditation from RIBA.

Initially, clients will need to showcase their competency in health and safety, with particular focus on fire safety. They will need to demonstrate a minimum level of knowledge and continue building upon it in order to pass subsequent tests.

All testing will be online using RIBA’s own Academy platform. The first tests will need to be complete in 2022.

While architects will only need to show their competency in health and safety at first, there are plans to test other competencies too. This includes climate, ethics, and research. Testing for them will be a requirement in the future.

Why the change?

RIBA is introducing the change for two main reasons. Firstly, they want to ensure that architects have to prove their competency. There is currently no real requirement for this. As a result, there is danger that some architects will rest on their laurels and not continue to develop.

The second reason for the change is to help improve public confidence in the industry. This is important following the disaster at Grenfell and other failings from architects. Rebuilding confidence is vital now, especially when you also consider the implications of COVID-19.

Rely on a top architect in London

At Coffey Architects we have no concerns about the competencies of our team. We have a culture of continuing professional development. This considers changes in the needs of our clients, the environment, and more.

If you need help from an architect, London has nobody better than us. Get in touch today to see how we can improve your project.