What are degree apprenticeships? 5 FAQs, answered

Degree apprenticeships are emerging as a popular alternative to the traditional university route. Here's everything you need to know about what they are and how they work. Apprenticeships have come…

Groundscrapers: why architects are turning skyscrapers on their side

Does the rise of the groundscraper signal the end of high-rise towers and skyscrapers? Here's why buildings are becoming flatter and wider. With all of the technological advancements we've seen…

What is a Principal Designer?

The role of the Principal Designer has been a hotly-debated topic in the built environment. Here's what it means. 2024 has been a big year for the built environment. With…

Net zero carbon buildings explained: here’s why they matter

If we’re to address our role in the ongoing climate crisis, the built environment needs to explore and champion the potential for net zero carbon buildings. In 2023, the UK…

Why SMEs should reconsider apprenticeships

If you've considered launching an apprenticeship scheme but have reservations, here are a few reasons why now is a great time to reconsider. The popularity and awareness of apprenticeships is…

Your guide to the 12 types of surveyor

Surveying is a broad term that applies to a variety of different professions in the built environment. Here are 12 you need to know. It's easy to be overwhelmed by…

Your mini-guide to parametric design

Parametric design can help architects rapidly produce designs that meet complex and varied requirements. Architects are no strangers to working within a set of rules and restrictions. While architecture is…

What is urban greening (and how is it creating the cities of the future)?

Urban greening isn’t just making the cities of the future green – it’s helping them become sustainable, too. Here’s how. The built environment is at a crossroads. As a sector,…

8 reasons you should launch an apprenticeship scheme with UCEM

Here are several reasons why you should consider launching your apprenticeship scheme with UCEM as your education provider. Degree apprenticeships are an increasingly popular model of learning in the England.…

Your guide to change management (and why it matters)

If the last few years have taught us anything about business, it’s that change is a fact of life. From the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of remote working to…

Fostering a future-ready workforce through collaboration

Rapid technological advancements, net zero commitments and the need for robust safety reforms are putting new demands on the built environment sector’s human capital. UCEM’s latest report, ‘Collaborative Futures: Competence,…

Human-centred design 101: here’s what it means for architecture

Applying human-centric design principles to our buildings and structures can have a wide range of benefits for both their occupants and the environment. From air quality and noise pollution to…