OVERVIEW
+3A Director Matthew Margetts currently runs Masters Studio 7 at Sheffield University and tutors final year BArch students at Newcastle University. Each institution has a very different pedagogy. At Sheffield the architecture school operates in separate studios, each exploring an explicitly different methodology. This could explore a place or typology, technology, theory or politic.
In contrast, the final year students at Newcastle undertake individual ‘thesis’ projects for the year in which they define their own specialised area of study. Again this could be based on a specific site, building type or abstract agenda.Under each studio system, +3 Architecture has been able to jointly explore and develop ideas, methodologies and approaches relating to architecture and urbanism which directly inform the way the practice undertakes projects. In return, +3A have been able to offer students projects that tackle current issues and in locations where their work has real, tangible relevance. We have also been able to create opportunities for students to present their work directly to private and public sector stakeholders which have been of great benefit and interest to both parties.
The pilot project known as GRAD (Graduate Retention and Development) has been set up by Northern Architecture, along with +3 Architecture in order to provide Part I and/or Part II Architecture graduates with a space in which to develop their skills and continue working on their portfolio.
As Matthew Margetts, Director of +3 Architecture states, 'It has been heartbreaking seeing talented and enthusiastic students unable to find employment in practice', so with the GRAD programme, they can put their skills and time to good use by gaining experience despite the difficulties the industry is facing.