Online Architecture Tutor Toby

I loved my architectural education. It was demanding, but also one of the most rewarding and formative periods of my life. Through my teaching, I aim to help students find that same sense of challenge and excitement in their work.

Before moving fully into higher education, I specialised in low-carbon design, receiving multiple national awards, including BD Sustainability Architect of the Year. While in practice, I developed a strong interest in visualisation and representation, something I continue to teach and explore.

These days, I’m a Course Leader in Architecture at undergraduate level. I co-developed and launched a new course, securing ARB accreditation and RIBA validation, with 80% of our first cohort moving into employment or further study within a year of graduating. I teach across design studio, technology, and professional practice, and regularly support students with academic development and longer-term career direction. I also asses a high volume of incoming A-Level portfolios, so have a clear understanding of what gets accepted, and what doesn’t.

I can work with students from A-Level through to Master’s across architecture and related design subjects. Areas I can offer guidance on include:

• Design studio and project development
• Portfolio preparation
• Drawing and visualisation
• CAD and digital workflows
• Theory and research
• Essays and dissertation writing
• Design strategy and presentation

My approach is supportive rather than prescriptive. Design is broad and personal – there’s rarely a single ‘right’ answer. I focus on helping students clarify their ideas, build confidence in their position, and develop practical strategies to produce stronger, more considered work.

While I enjoy the conceptual and theoretical side of architecture, it’s important to remember that it’s really about making. Outside teaching, I keep that connection alive with an ongoing renovation of my 1960s Bristol council house.