Surveying Architectural Education Opportunities for K–12 Students

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2023

Toronto Society of Architects and Ontario Association of Architects Launch Joint Project to Better Understand Current Programing Landscape 

The Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) and the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) are embarking on a joint project to better understand the landscape of K–12 architectural education in Ontario and Canada.

Recognizing the essential role the built environment plays in community life and collective health and wellbeing, the TSA and OAA are hoping to better understand how the architecture profession is presented to our youth, knowing they will be the ones shaping our environments in the future.

The objective is to identify organizations currently doing work in this area, and develop a better understanding of the kinds of programs being offered and challenges being faced. Ultimately, the goal is to provide opportunities for connection and collaboration among all these groups, better promote their programming, and understand what role different organizations can play in improving access to architectural education from kindergarten to Grade 12.

As part of this initiative, the TSA and OAA have launched an initial search to identify K-12 architectural education programs and resources in Canada and collect information on each of these programs. Organizations working in this sector are encouraged to contact Joël León, TSA Programming Director, by Tuesday, April 11 to participate in this initial data collection phase. 

All participating organizations will receive a copy of the information compiled and be invited to participate in a Big Think Session later in the year to meet other like-minded organizations working in this sector, discuss challenges and opportunities, and identify opportunities for collaboration to advance K–12 architectural education in Ontario and Canada.

ABOUT THE TORONTO SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTS

Established in 1887, the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) is a non-profit, volunteer-led organization dedicated to bringing people together to discuss, learn, and explore around our shared passion for the built environment.

We are committed to the betterment of our city and have played an important advocacy role throughout Toronto’s history. We do this through a wide range of programs that foster welcoming and inclusive forums for debate and the exchange of ideas, stimulating critical thinking about the design and building issues of our time.

Our public programming is complemented by initiatives supporting the personal growth and professional development of more than 2,500 TSA Members. Membership is open to everyone and welcomes design professionals, students, and the general public.

ABOUT THE ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF ARCHITECTS 

Founded in 1889, the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) is a self-regulating organization governed by the Architects Act, a statute of the Government of Ontario. It is dedicated to promoting and increasing the knowledge, skill and proficiency of its members, and administering the Act, to serve and protect the public interest. Last year, the OAA defined a new five-year Strategic Plan to guide the Association’s actions and initiatives. Visit www.oaa.on.ca to learn more.