The AA is one of the world's leading, and longest surviving schools of architecture. It was founded in 1847 by and for young architects, at a time when there was no formal training outside the apprenticeship system. It is seen as one of the most avant-garde architecture schools anywhere, and has always been famous for its vigorous architectural debates.

Likewise, the Post-graduate Course in the Conservation of Historic Buildings is the first, and longest surviving, course in the UK, having been started in 1975. Others have been inspired by it, and its success.

The close contact and juxtaposition of the course with the main school is a huge advantage to all who participate, as all Students on the Building Conservation course are members of the AA and have access to all its facilities, libraries, lectures, visits and other events.

The location of the course in Central London also means that a large number of major historic buildings and conservation projects are readily accessible. It also provides easy contacts with the many leading professionals and practitioners in the field who are based in London. It is also convenient for participating students traveling from different parts of the country.