Coventry College aims to train next generation of architects and designers with unique course

The leader of a further education course taught only in Coventry is looking to shape the city’s future through training the next generation of architects and designers.

Andrew Marshment leads the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Transport and Architecture at Coventry College, the only course in the UK to offer practical design and Model Making Skills to college level students.

Through drawing studies, computer modelling and practical model making sessions, Andrew, a Coventry University graduate, wants to help students understand the city’s heritage and help them contribute to its future development.

The course, which Andrew leads with his colleague Dave Craddock, is in its fourth year and has doubled in size with that figure set to increase to 40 in September.

He said: “We have been growing year-on-year and I think that is down to the exclusive nature of our offering and students wanting to join a course which lays out a clear and exciting career path.

“Coventry has a rich transport tradition and developing architectural skyline and I hope that our students can help contribute to the progress of our city in the future.

“Some of our students have enjoyed really successful work experience placements but we would love to build links with more businesses in the area.

“As our course continues to grow we want to build our reputation for producing top quality students with skills that others don’t possess.”

The course gives students access to a number of guest speakers to see first-hand how their future industry works.

Students can also build up a strong portfolio with recent projects including the creation of a lightweight sports car design, architectural structures, public spaces and much more.

Gemma Knott, assistant principal for business growth at Coventry College, said: “We are very proud to be able to offer young people in Coventry the chance to access a course unique to our college.

“Andrew and Dave have built an exciting course and we would love to increase our business links as the uptake continues to grow.”