New Education Head at ARB

New Education Head at ARB (27/07/2001)

The Architects Registration Board has today announced the appointment of Dr Jon Levett as its new Head of Education, one of the three core functions set for the Board by the Architects Act 1997. Levett will replace Mike Wetherell, who had held the post since 1999.

The appointment comes at a pivotal time as the Board, in conjunction with the Royal Institute of British Architects, looks to complete its review of the validation criteria for schools of architecture in the United Kingdom. This year, ARB will also be providing input into the European Commission's review of the EU Directive, setting out pan-European standards for architectural education.

Levett, who was previously the Board's Education Executive responsible for University Liaison, takes on a broad portfolio of activities, which will include:

* Advising the Board on all matters of educational policy for the threshold standard to be obtained before a person can become an architect

* Managing the operation of ARB's policies on national and international matters dealing with the impact of standards for architectural education on competence for practise in the UK

* Liaising on educational matters with external organisations, including the RIBA, SCHOSA, the Architects' Council of Europe and relevant Government Departments

* Advising all 36 schools of architecture which offer ARB-validated qualifications on policies and procedures relating to registration requirements

Commenting on the appointment, Robin Vaughan, Chief Executive & Registrar, said:

"ARB is absolutely delighted that Jon has decided to accept this crucial post and is taking up the challenge of managing ARB's educational responsibilities. There is a great deal to be done in this field to ensure the quality of architectural education in a changing world, and Jon's grasp of the issues and experience of academia make him the ideal person for this role."