Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Foster + Partners is committed to prioritising equity, diversity and inclusivity, and strives to create a working environment that is supportive and respectful of different cultures and identities.

We programme a range of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives which aim to embed inclusion and belonging across the practice.

To support this focus, we have formed a series of EDI employee networks to harness lived experience and improve engagement, awareness and knowledge sharing.

Each group aims to support our people in the workplace and provide valuable lived experience in support of best practice. Championing equity, diversity and inclusion in the architectural profession sits front and centre in all we do.

We have well-established links with a number of schools and universities around the world, funding awards and prizes and supporting educational activities. Our internship and apprenticeship programmes provide valuable experience to students from a wide range of backgrounds. We also have strong links with Blueprint for all and Black Professionals in Construction (BPIC Network).

BSL Tour of Foster + Partners' London campus, hosted by John Wilson

Careers at Foster + Partners

Foster + Partners is an equal opportunities employer committed to equity, diversity and inclusion as an integral and essential part of the practice. Equity and inclusion lie at the heart of all we do.

As a global practice with over 65 spoken languages across our workforce, we thrive on the unique qualities of our diverse community.

Through a range of inspirational and motivational talks and training, as well as intranet features, we embed inclusion and belonging best practice across all aspects of our workforce culture.

We are always looking for exceptional people to join our innovative, international team. The practice is open and dynamic and we welcome the very best talent from all cultures, ethnicities and identities to join us.

Vacancies

Open City - Architecture in Schools

The aim of the programme is to inspire the next generation of city-shapers; for children to understand how architecture and design informs the world around us. Each year, as a principal partner, we team up with an inner-city school and together respond to a design challenge. The programme also aims to train teachers on how architecture can be used to teach a variety of subjects including art, design, numeracy, literacy, geography and science while improving children’s drawing, model-making, communication and problem-solving skills.

Open City - Architecture in Schools

Pro-Bono work

Alongside the Bryan Adams Foundation we have created new playgrounds for two local London schools, Park Walk and Ashburnham Community School. We built Maggie’s Manchester to provide a place of solace and support for people affected by cancer and continue to work on a range of pro-bono projects from a community boathouse in New York to the refurbishment of London Zoo’s Snowdon Aviary to create a new home for Colobus monkeys. Our work aims to create new opportunities and a better future for all.

School visits and work experience

Through learning engagement and work experiences, we provide meaningful opportunities for students aged nine years and over to learn, develop their confidence and develop new skills. In particular, our programmes focus on design, drawing and the built environment.

Blueprint for All

Blueprint for All (formerly The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust) was founded to address inequality in all its forms. Our practice focusses on that same vision to create a fairer world in which everybody, no matter their background, can succeed. We have a dedicated internship programme for Part 1 students from Blueprint for All ranging from 3 – 12 months. In addition, we also offer training programmes to develop skills in interviewing techniques, presentations, portfolios and software. We also work closely with them to identify opportunities for full-time roles for their apprentices at the practice.

Disabilities Forum

Promotes education and understanding of physical and mental abilities within the practice and the corresponding workplace adjustments that are required. Workshops, sports activities and support programmes are provided to encourage wellbeing for all staff.

M.A.D.E (Multi-ethnic Allies Driving Equality)

As a global practice with over 65 spoken languages, cultural diversity is an organic and central feature of our workforce. The network promotes equality, inclusion and anti-racism for all through events and celebrations which embed awareness and support career progression.

LGBT+ Network

The network supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and the wider community at the practice. It raises awareness and provides guidance within the industry. We celebrate Pride and promote positive role models within the profession through our outreach activities. We aim to host regular mentoring sessions and training to educate and inform our people.

Parents and Carers

Providing engagement, education and support for our people on family, health and wellbeing, stress and life management matters. We have enhanced both our maternity and paternity policies and provide a number of benefits for parents and carers.

Women's Forum

The forum promotes a gender inclusive culture and diverse workforce to support the practice’s strategic growth. We are members of several organisations that promote female leadership through mentoring and we engage in talks and events that spotlight female achievement.