New AssocRICS training programme responds to evolving professional standards and growing demand for technical expertise
November 2nd 2026
SDL Surveying has launched a new training and development initiative designed to support aspiring residential surveyors in achieving AssocRICS status and building a pathway towards Chartered qualification.
The launch comes at a pivotal moment for the residential surveying profession. With the introduction of the RICS Home Survey Standard Second Edition and wider reforms to the home buying and selling process aimed at improving transparency and reducing transaction failures, there is increasing recognition of the important role surveyors play in helping consumers make informed property decisions.
SDL Academy has supported the development of SDL Surveying colleagues for a number of years through structured training, mentoring and professional development. The new AssocRICS Training Programme formalises and expands that approach, opening it up to external recruits and creating a clear pathway for aspiring surveyors to develop the technical competence, professional judgement and practical experience required by the modern surveying profession.
The inaugural SDL Academy AssocRICS Training Programme will commence in January 2027 and provide participants with a structured 12-month development pathway combining technical learning, professional development and practical application within the residential surveying sector.
Simon Jackson, Managing Director of SDL Surveying, said:
“The role of the residential surveyor is becoming increasingly important as buyers, lenders and policymakers look for greater transparency throughout the home buying process.
“The introduction of the Home Survey Standard Second Edition, together with wider reform of the home buying and selling process, means there is likely to be much greater emphasis on residential surveys. That’s a positive step, but it also means the profession has a responsibility to ensure surveyors have the technical knowledge, practical experience and professional judgement needed to meet those expectations.”
At SDL Surveying, we’ve always believed that while technology has an important role to play, you can’t beat well-trained surveyors applying their expertise on the ground. SDL Academy is about investing in the next generation of talent and giving people a structured pathway to develop the skills, confidence and competence that modern surveying demands.”
Adrian Drummond, Head of Academy Services, added:
“I’m genuinely excited to launch our AssocRICS training programme because developing people has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I’ve seen first-hand how the right support, mentoring and guidance can help talented individuals achieve qualifications they once thought were beyond their reach.”
“As home surveys become increasingly important to the home buying process, our industry needs more technically capable and confident professionals. SDL Academy has been created to help develop that talent and provide a clear route for aspiring surveyors to progress from AssocRICS through to Chartered status.”
“Participants will benefit from structured training, practical experience and support from experienced professionals, helping them build the knowledge and confidence required for long-term success in the surveying profession.”
Programme eligibility
SDL Surveying is inviting expressions of interest from graduates and professionals working within residential surveying or related property disciplines who are committed to developing their expertise and progressing towards professional qualification.
Applicants should meet one of the following criteria;
- Hold an RICS-accredited degree; or
- Hold an alternative degree together with a minimum of four years’ relevant professional experience.
Express your interest
Individuals interested in joining the programme are invited to submit the following to Michele.Southern@sdlsurveying.co.uk:
- Their current role and a brief summary of relevant experience;
- Details of degree qualifications and any other relevant professional qualifications;
- Examples of relevant surveying or property-related experience; and
- A short statement outlining why they wish to achieve AssocRICS status and their longer-term career ambitions.
Places on the inaugural programme are limited and will be subject to a selection process.