Dan Bates - Architecture

Dan chose to take the Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) as part of his study route on the BA (Hons) Architectural Venue Design course.

What is the DPP?

This course gives you the opportunity to go on a gap year to gain work experience whilst you're on your degree course. This will allow you to gain the skills and relevant work experience employers in your industry are looking for, enhancing your employment prospects when you graduate.

 

This is an additional qualification that will sit between the second and final year of your degree offering valuable experience in the workplace whilst on your work placement.

Where did you do the DPP?

WM Design & Architecture in Angelsey North Wales.  A small architectural practice consisting of 4 people, worked mostly on residential projects, barn conversions and out building conversions.

 

What was your initial brief?

I was assigned a design task which was refurbishment of a house and learnt the following:

           

• How to use the appropriate software
• How to publish this and submit to planning
• Send through to building regulations
• Meet with clients to discuss their needs and wants

 

It was good to see that whole process form planning through to building regulations

 

Why would you recommend the DPP to other students?

It was great to have first hand experience of going through the required processes, working closely with clients to decipher their requirements and planning every technical detail.

 

What did you personally get out of the DPP?

Essential knowledge about building houses and a sense of really being able to take your final year project to another level.