Meet the Scheme Alumni
Previous Architecture Scheme Graduates at TfL share their experiences:
“My experience on this scheme could not have been better. This team offers the benefits of a small architectural practice, including plenty of hands-on experience and responsibility on projects from feasibility to construction, combined with the opportunity to work on large-scale projects that often span several city blocks.
The involvement in both architectural delivery and acting as a client advisor provides rare insight into project development and management, laying the groundwork for a strong understanding of the skills and role of a qualified Architect. This experience has paved the way for professional development and boosted confidence in my abilities over the years.
The most rewarding aspect for me was seeing how our work directly improves, even in small ways, the everyday lives and experiences of people living, working, and travelling throughout London.”
Tim Williams, Architecture Scheme Graduate
Fun Fact / What Makes Us Different
TfL’s in-house architecture department is RIBA award-winning. Fewer than 1% of architects work in local government in-house departments—compared to nearly half of all architects in 1979.
Salary
£31,000, rising to £32,250 in the second year, with a final salary of £36,000 in the fourth and final year of the scheme.
Location
London (with the possibility of hybrid working depending on the placement).
The Architecture team operates a hybrid working model, including dedicated discipline days in the office and some days working from home. Graduates will also visit construction sites and survey and inspect existing buildings.
What TfL Offers
Graduates will enjoy excellent benefits and scope to grow. Rewards include:
- Free travel on the TfL network for you and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- A final salary pension scheme.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- 30 days of annual leave (pro rata dependent on the role) plus public and bank holidays.
- Access to a private healthcare discounted scheme.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Retail, health, leisure, and travel offers, among many more.
Duration
4 years.
Entry Requirements
Candidates must hold or be working towards an ARB (Architect’s Registration Board)-prescribed Part 1 qualification or equivalent, as prescribed by the ARB.
Those in their final year of study must be on track to achieve a minimum 2:2 degree in a qualification prescribed by the ARB.
Candidates must not already hold or be working towards a qualification at the same level or higher in a closely related subject.
Proposed Start Date
8th September 2025.
Job Overview
The Built Environment & Architecture team in TfL Engineering works across all transport modes at TfL, delivering a wide variety of Architectural, Civil Engineering, and Urban Landscape projects. Current projects include the upgrades of Old Street Station and Kentish Town Station, demonstrating the breadth and complexity of the team’s work.
Examples of projects graduates may contribute to include:
- London Underground station enhancements, such as new step-free access projects or reconfiguring entrances for existing stations.
- The modernisation of Victoria Coach Station, which involves preparing new concept designs for the iconic Grade II listed building to meet 21st-century needs.
- A substantial programme of upgrading staff welfare facilities and constructing new ones.
- Commercial development of TfL assets, such as railway arches.
Graduates will work on a portfolio of projects and assist in the preparation of design information, including surveys, design reports, and detailed design packages. They will contribute to on-site works on major projects and refurbishment schemes. Collaborative work within multi-disciplinary teams is integral to the role.
Sustainability
Sustainability is central to TfL’s work ethos and its goal to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
TfL follows the Corporate Environment Plan (CEP) and industry best practices to ensure sustainable operations that protect and regenerate the natural world. Graduates will contribute to the Built Environment Strategy, informed by TfL’s CEP and statutory requirements.
What Graduates Will Do
The 4-year development programme includes multiple placement rotations designed to equip graduates with a range of skills and experiences necessary for a successful career.
Graduates will rotate between design teams working on different modes of transport, including placements in Major Projects, such as the Piccadilly Line Upgrade. At least one year will involve working in an area where they can deliver or closely observe building design and delivery for their RIBA Part III case study.
Shared events with the Level 6 Building Surveying apprenticeship programme are also planned, where the criteria for RICS and RIBA align.
Qualifications Earned
Graduates will gain:
- A postgraduate qualification in architecture (RIBA Part 2), prescribed by the ARB.
- A postgraduate qualification in architecture (RIBA Part 3), prescribed by the ARB.
Upon completion of these qualifications, graduates will be eligible to join the ARB Register of Architects and apply to the RIBA Register of Chartered Architects.
Career Progression
Graduates completing the scheme will have the skills, knowledge, and experience required to become an Architect within the Built Environment & Architecture team at TfL Engineering.
Career pathways within TfL include roles such as:
- Senior Architect/Engineer.
- Senior Leader.
- Principal Architect/Engineer.
- Project Engineering roles.
The skills acquired on the scheme will also make graduates highly sought after in the wider architectural profession.
Training and Support
Graduates will receive comprehensive support, including:
- On-the-job training across various placements.
- Mentoring and networking opportunities.
- One-to-one guidance from:
- Placement manager: Oversees day-to-day management and development.
- Scheme sponsor: Provides technical and professional advice.
- Buddy: A graduate or apprentice who supports the transition into the organisation.
- Development adviser: Offers career coaching and progression support.
What TfL Looks For
TfL values candidates who embody its core values:
- Caring about colleagues, customers, and work.
- Being open to new ideas and collaboration.
- Adaptable to diverse needs and willing to innovate.
Application Process
The application process involves five stages, including online assessments that must be completed within set timeframes.
Candidates are advised to review the application process thoroughly in advance. Copies of qualification certificates should be uploaded during the application, though missing or upcoming certificates can be provided later.
Please click on this link for which describes each stage of the https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles?intcmp=66755
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL operates a transparent recruitment process that removes barriers for disabled candidates.
As a Disability Confident employer, TfL offers guaranteed interviews to candidates who meet the minimum criteria for skills, knowledge, and experience.
The process is supported by a robust reasonable adjustments policy, in collaboration with Occupational Health and other expert organisations.
Contact Information
For reasonable adjustments or further information, candidates may contact the recruitment team:
- Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:30).
- Email: EarlyCareersCampaigns@tfl.gov.uk.