PlanBEE

PlanBEE was launched by a group of North East employers in 2016. This industry driven, higher level skills programme, was inspired by Ryder Architecture who identified a skills and talent gap in the sector.

They brought together Gateshead College and key players in the industry to develop a higher apprenticeship programme which would prepare young people for a career in a broad range of technical and professional roles in architecture, building engineering, project management, cost consultancy and construction site management, and provide an alternative work-based route into these jobs rather than via university.

Since its launch PlanBEE has been supported by a consortium of more than 50 local and national businesses representing a wide range of professional disciplines including architects, contractors, engineers, surveyors and digital construction specialists. It has won several awards and been successful in enabling 98% of graduates to secure roles with sponsor employers.

In 2021, PlanBEE Manchester was launched in partnership with Manchester City Council, Manchester Life, Ryder Architecture and Gateshead College.

Building on the growing reputation of PlanBEE in the North, the London School of Architecture believed that there was an opportunity to support more young people into the industry through PlanBEE London.

The programme is part of the LSA’s Part 0 initiative which aims to raise awareness and give young people and those looking for a career change, access to the wide variety of careers in the built environment sector.

PlanBEE is now available in three UK regions, with an affiliate programme developed in Vancouver, Canada.

Applications for PlanBEE are now open, with the successful applicants starting in September 2024. To find out more about the programme, sign up for one of our Meet the Employers Events: