If you’re a high school student fascinated by buildings, cities, and the spaces people inhabit, architecture may already feel like an exciting path. You might enjoy sketching structures, studying famous landmarks, or thinking about how design influences everyday life. One of the best ways to experience this dynamic field firsthand is by attending an architecture summer school in the UK.

Imagine spending your summer in a studio environment, developing your own design concepts, building physical or digital models, and learning how architects turn ideas into functional spaces. Picture exploring historic streets, analyzing contemporary buildings, and understanding how urban design shapes communities. Architecture summer schools in the UK combine creative exploration with structured guidance, giving you a glimpse into what studying architecture at university might feel like.

How do you choose the right architecture summer schools in the UK for high school students?

With many programs available, it’s important to identify those that provide meaningful learning. Some emphasize drawing and portfolio development, while others focus on urban planning, sustainable design, or digital modeling tools. That’s why thoughtful research matters, so you can pick the right programs.

Across the UK, architecture summer schools may offer workshops in model-making, site analysis, CAD software, sustainable design principles, and architectural theory. You might participate in design challenges, collaborative projects, or guided critiques that mirror the studio culture of university architecture courses. Programs range from beginner-friendly introductions to more intensive experiences for students serious about pursuing architecture.

You’ll learn from practising architects and experienced instructors, collaborate with peers who share your creative interests, and develop pieces that can strengthen your future portfolio. Along the way, you’ll sharpen visual communication skills, build confidence presenting ideas, and gain a clearer sense of what a career in architecture could involve.

To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of 15 Architecture Summer Schools in the UK for High School Students. They’ve been selected for their hands-on learning, studio-based experiences, and ability to ignite lasting enthusiasm for design and the built environment.

If you’re also interested in other options, you can check out summer programs in the UK.

15 Architecture Summer Schools in the UK for High School Students

1. UCL Bartlett Summer School

Location: London, UK
Cost/Stipend: GBP 950 (5-day program), GBP 2500 (15 days)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: Different dates throughout July
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: Students aged 14 to 18 years old, open to international students with passing visa

The University College London (UCL) holds an annual program called The Bartlett Summer School as a way for high school students to get more exposure to architecture and life as a student at the UCL Bartlett Faculty of Built Environment. For 5 to 10 days, you will come together to explore your creativity through a shared learning experience, just like in an architecture studio.

The classes are led by professional architects who offer unique expertise to support each student. At the end of the program, you will get a Certificate of Completion (if you attend a minimum of 75% of the total course) and a portfolio of your work during the summer school.

Why it stands out: It offers a studio-style learning experience led by professional architects within one of the UK’s most established built environment faculties, culminating in a portfolio and formal certificate.

2. Immerse Education Architecture Summer School 2026

Location: Oxford and Cambridge, UK
Cost/Stipend: Varies; summer school scholarship available through their bursary programme
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Average of 7 participants per class
Dates: Rolling admission
Application Deadline: First-come, first-served
Eligibility: Teens aged 13 to 18 years old, international students are encouraged to apply

High school participants aged 13 to 18 who are interested in architecture and want to build the skills needed for future study can join Immerse Education’s Architecture Summer School, one of the most academically structured architecture summer school in the UK for students preparing for competitive applications. This summer school combines university-level teaching with personal mentorship.

In this summer course, you gain essential insight into issues like urban planning, smart cities, sustainable designs, develop problem-solving and presentation skills, and prepare for college and university applications. At the end of the program, you will get a Certificate of Achievement. Classes are based on group mentoring, 1-on-1 mentorship, attending expert seminars, starting a unique project, and attending day excursions to get more from the UK lifestyle.

Why it stands out: It combines university-level academic teaching with structured 1:1 mentorship and guided project development tailored to students preparing for competitive university applications.

3. ARUP Internship

Location: 16 different locations in the UK
Cost/Stipend: Not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: As many students as possible
Dates: Start in June/July and can last from 6 to 8 weeks. Industrial internships start in September.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students ready to take the leap into the professional world, not suitable for international applicants

Arup is a global company of independent designers, engineers, planners and technical specialists founded in 1946. Every year, they open their doors for students to apply for their Summer Placement Internships that cover every department in the company.

In Arup, no two days are the same, and you will get plenty of challenges designed to provide you with real skills that you can carry forward in your life. To apply, you are encouraged to go to their careers page and to apply to internship positions that you think are suitable for you.

Why it stands out: It provides direct exposure to a global multidisciplinary engineering and design firm, allowing students to work within real commercial departments rather than a simulated academic setting.

4. Scott Brownrigg Work Experience Student

Location: London, UK
Cost/Stipend: Not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited students
Dates: 23-27 February, 18-22 May, 29th June – 3rd July, 27-31 July
Application Deadline: 13th February
Eligibility: Students in full-time UK high school education from year 10 to year 13. International applicants aren’t encouraged to apply.

Scott Brownrigg is a company specialising in design and architecture with their Head Office in London and studios across the UK, New York, Amsterdam, and Singapore. Their Work Experience Programme is a one-week experience that shows you real insight into the work of an architect, including brief, research, design/concept and presentation.

You will be grouped with other students from other schools to expand your horizon and to network with fellow participants. This program is most suitable for you, especially if you come from an underrepresented community, to bridge the gap and encourage wider access to the architect profession.

Why it stands out: It is specifically designed to widen access to architecture by prioritising students from underrepresented backgrounds while offering insight into real project workflows.

5. UAL Short Course Architecture for 16 to 18 Year Olds

Location: London, UK
Cost/Stipend: From GBP 730
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: 29th June – 3rd July, 27-31 July, or 24-28 August
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 to 18 years old, international applicants are welcome

Students aged 16 to 18 who are considering studying architecture at pre-degree or undergraduate level can enrol in this one-week short course focused on contemporary and sustainable spatial design. The program requires full-week attendance to fully engage with lectures, practical exercises, discussions, and assigned tasks.

During the week, you work in teams to develop a project on adaptive reuse, exploring strategies for repurposing existing buildings, while also completing individual model-making tasks using provided materials such as bamboo rods and cable ties. The course covers architectural processes, sustainable design approaches, research methods, mapping, drawing, and analogue presentation skills, and includes an off-site visit. You will receive a digital badge and certificate of attendance upon completion.

Why it stands out: It centres on adaptive reuse and sustainable spatial design through structured team projects and hands-on model-making using professional architectural processes.

6. Norwich University of the Arts Summer School

Location: Norwich, UK
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: 23rd July – 27th August, classes are held every Wednesday
Application Deadline: 30th September
Eligibility: Teens aged 14 years old and above, international students are allowed to join

Norwich University of the Arts Summer School is a summer school specialising in arts and architecture. For one month, attend a class every Wednesday to dive deeper into the creative arts world. This summer school will give you a certificate of completion once you’re done, but you need to fulfil three out of six weeks of classes to get the certificate.

Not only will you get a certificate of attendance, but you will also come out with a fresh portfolio that can be useful for your college application. This summer school is suitable if you’re a teenager aged 14 years old and above.

Why it stands out: It runs over multiple weeks with flexible attendance while enabling students to build a structured, creative portfolio suitable for further study applications.

7. Arts University Bournemouth 2-week Summer Course

Location: Bournemouth, UK
Cost/Stipend: Course only: GBP 1799, course + accommodation + food GBP 2635, course + accommodation + food + airport transfer GBP 2970
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: 3rd August – 14th August
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: Teenagers aged 15 to 17 years old. There is no formal academic qualification for this course, just come with an open mind and curiosity. International students are encouraged to apply

Are you fascinated with buildings and wonder how to design them? Arts University Bournemouth offers you a 2-week summer course especially in architecture to help teens aged 15 to 17 years old get a head start in architecture and to develop their working knowledge about architecture design concepts. There is no formal academic qualification to join this course, as long as you come with an open mind.

For two weeks, you will learn topics such as principles of architectural design, urban planning, digital drawing, CAD software, and so much more. During the course, you will be constantly assessed with observations, assignments, projects, and the work you have produced can be collated into a portfolio for your further education.

Why it stands out: It delivers two weeks of assessed practical training in architectural design principles and CAD without requiring prior academic qualifications.

8. FAB Architecture Summer School

Location: Brighton, UK
Cost/Stipend: GBP 500 + VAT
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10 students
Dates: August for 5 days
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: People (students and general public) who are interested in studying architecture in university and want to get a head start before applying. No information given for international applicants.

Are you interested in the world of architecture? The FAB Architecture Summer School is an interesting opportunity for you to get to know more about architecture before going to a real architecture school. This intensive one-week program will teach you the basics of architecture, starting from Day 1: navigating the world of architecture to Day 5: Portfolio Review.

After completing the program, you’ll have a better understanding of what it feels like studying architecture in college, how to put together a showstopping portfolio, and learning how new technologies like AI can impact the design sphere in the future. This program is only open to 10 students every year, so early application is encouraged.

Why it stands out: It limits participation to just 10 students per year, creating an intensive, highly focused environment with direct portfolio review and exposure to emerging technologies such as AI in design.

9. Manchester College Pre-Entry Summer School

Location: Manchester, UK
Cost/Stipend: Students get a GBP 300 bursary per year
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: Not disclosed
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 to 18 years old, not suitable for international students

Students who are interested in pursuing a career in architectural and construction engineering can attend the ACE Scholarship Pre-Entry Summer School hosted by The Manchester College in Manchester, UK. The summer school is designed as an introduction to the Level 3 Architectural and Construction Engineering (ACE) Scholarship programme, which begins in September.

The full scholarship pathway includes 11 industry-designed modules, masterclasses led by professionals, and a 45-day industry placement to provide practical experience alongside classroom learning. This program is suitable for you who want structured, industry-linked preparation before entering further education or employment in the construction and built environment sector.

Why it stands out: It acts as a gateway to an industry-sponsored scholarship pathway that includes employer-designed modules, a bursary, and a 45-day professional placement.

10. Brookes Engage

Location: Oxford, England
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: 30th June – 2nd July for Biomedical Science, Architecture, Business School Experience and Creative Industries streams. 7-9 July for Computer Science, Adult and Children’s Nursing, and Law streams.
Application Deadline: Different per streams
Eligibility: High school students in year 12 or the first year of college; international applications are encouraged

The Brookes Engage program is designed for high school students who are preparing for college and seeking clarity about their academic direction through a work experience program in the UK. As part of a year-long pathway that begins in January, you get to explore your chosen subject through a combination of academic engagement, masterclasses, and structured mentorship. The program supports you as you navigate the university application process while developing confidence in your academic interests.

During the summer phase, you can continue your studies on campus at Oxford Brookes University and gain familiarity with life in the city of Oxford. After returning to school in September, the program continues online with guided academic support. The experience concludes with a mini-graduation held at Oxford Brookes University the following March.

Why it stands out: Its program is focused on providing university-style practical work and subject tasters, so you’ll be in a better position to make academic decisions for your future.

11. Nottingham Trent University Architecture for 15 to 17 Year Olds

Location: Nottingham, UK
Cost/Stipend: GBP 545
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: 20-24 July, 27-31 July, 3-7 August
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: High school students from around the world between age 15 to 17 year old

Nottingham Trent University provides a short architecture course for high school students aged 15 to 17 years old. For five days, you will be part of a design community that promotes discussion and collaboration and learn techniques used by architects and architecture students. During this course, you will learn architecture through hands-on exploration, such as learning how to sketch objects and people quickly, learn about idea generation and design development, and learn how to present your work verbally in a portfolio.

Not only learning, but you will also mingle with other participants through social events on Monday and Wednesday evening. At the end of the program, you will receive a certificate of attendance, which you can use to boost your university application (along with your portfolio).

Why it stands out: It helps young students to learn architecture through hands-on skills.

12. Young Architect Summer Experience by InvestIN

Location: London, UK
Cost/Stipend: GBP 2225 (one week, non-residential), GBP 3275 (two weeks, non-residential), GBP 4400 (two weeks premium, non-residential). Residential option costs starting from GBP 3275 to GBP 7550.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Class is closed once it has reached capacity
Dates: 27th June, starting from one to two weeks
Application Deadline: First-come, first-served basis
Eligibility: Students aged 15 to 18 years old, international students are welcome to apply

Over the course of two weeks, in this program, you get to step into the shoes of a real architect in London through immersive career simulations and professional site visits, such as Foster and Partners. Not only that, but you also get to complete a series of projects using real-life architect designing skills (mentored by an industry expert) and design your own sustainable structure.

At the end of the project, you get to show your final design to a panel of architects, get feedback on your work, and showcase your work in an iconic venue in London. You can choose to join the program for one week, two weeks, or a “premium two-week experience” (with enhanced benefits). At the end of the program, you get the option to have your work assessed to get a Level 3 Award in Work Experience and Career Planning, equivalent to 8 UCAS points.

Why it stands out: It offers immersive career simulations, professional site visits, and the opportunity to earn a Level 3 Award equivalent to UCAS tariff points.

13. Open City Accelerate 

Location: Birmingham, UK
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: February, every Saturday from 10 AM until 4 PM
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: Young people aged 14-18 years old, not suitable for international students

Open City Accelerate is a free program in Birmingham dedicated to teenagers aged 14 to 18 years old to explore careers in architecture, landscaping, planning, engineering, and related fields. It includes a series of skill development courses on Saturdays from 10 am until 4 pm and group mentoring sessions with an industry professional in the architecture, engineering, or landscaping industry.

Not only skill development courses, but this program also provides programs such as site visits to special locations around London, university visits to attend workshops (in partnership with university partners), and creative workshops to help you create your portfolio. Partner universities include UCL, University of the Arts London, Kingston University London, and Ravensbourne University London.

Why it stands out: Why this stands out: It is a fully funded, long-term Saturday programme focused on widening participation in built environment careers through mentoring, university partnerships, and portfolio development.

14. Sutton Cambridge Summer School

Location: Cambridge, UK
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 20 places
Dates: 17-21 August
Application Deadline: 12th February
Eligibility: Students have always attended state-funded, non-paying schools, and are studying in Year 12 in England/Wales, Year 13 in Northern Ireland, or S5 in Scotland (or equivalent). Students under 18 years old, international applications are not allowed

Sutton Trust UK Summer School is a series of summer schools in different universities in the UK that offer more than 40 courses. For Architecture, you can choose to study the summer course at the University of Cambridge. During the summer school, you get to live one whole week in a university and immerse yourself in university life with activities such as attending lectures, networking with professors, living in a dorm and socialising with other participants.

The one-week program includes site visits, hands-on skill development, portfolio sessions, academic sessions, and subject immersion. After the summer school ends, you will come home with more experience of what it’s like studying university-level architecture and an idea to start your own college application.

Why it stands out: It is entirely free and provides residential immersion at a leading UK university, combining academic sessions with direct exposure to collegiate life.

15. Imagine Architecture: Introductory Summer School by the University of Westminster

Location: London, UK
Cost/Stipend: Not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not disclosed
Dates: Not disclosed
Application Deadline: Not disclosed
Eligibility: High school students in the UK aged 15 to 18 years old currently studying for their GCSE’s, A-Level or B-Tec qualifications. Not sure if international applicants can join.

University of Westminster’s Imagine Architecture is an active introduction for those who want to experience what studying architecture feels like, and it’s one of the most practical, portfolio-driven architecture summer school in the UK for building early skills. For five days, you study architecture through introductory sessions, skill-building classes such as 3D modelling, exhibition visits, lectures, and guided portfolio creation.

At the end of the course, you will have a better understanding of what it’s like being an architecture student, how to choose the right university for you, how to create a college portfolio, and the skills needed to apply to engineering school. Not only studying, but there will also be a chance to network with your peers and key players in the industry.

Why it stands out: It grants students access to a professional Fabrication Lab while delivering hands-on technical training in 3D modelling and portfolio development within a university setting.

Turn Studio Skills Into Strong Applications

A summer programme can turn your break into real making, from sketching concepts to building models you can explain with confidence.

In an architecture summer school in the UK, you’ll learn to think in plans, sections, and stories, then test ideas through critique, iteration, and clear visual communication.

By the end, you’ll often have portfolio-ready work, stronger presentation skills, and a sharper sense of what you want to study.

Ready to turn that progress into offers? Visit our University Preparation blogs for personal statement tips, interview guidance, entry requirements, and supercurricular ideas that help you stand out.