Assistant Technical Coordinator Review

As a Assistant Technical Coordinator I am the Technical contact for 2 construction sites, solving design queries and consulting with architects/engineers to produce construction drawings. I spend 3 days a week in the office, 1 day on site and 1 day WFH.

I started the apprenticeship with no experience in construction and a small amount of admin skills. I now have been promoted and run my own sites. I am now in a great position to advance my career. My only critique would be that I would like the university course to be more relevant to my job role e.g. more architectural/engineering study.

I very much enjoy the programme. The Uni block weeks are only 1 week every 3 months so most of the time the role feels like a normal office job. I get on well with my colleagues and the role is challenging but worth it. however, it can be stressful at times as this is a faced paced environment.

The University aspect of my apprenticeship is poorly organised, Sheffield Hallam are changeable with the timetable/programme/deadlines and the whole Uni course feels not thought through. The teaching quality varies and is often is not relevant to the assessments. The Barratt Redrow aspect is very well structured. Firstly assisting another Technical Coordinator to learn the ropes, then I was then given my own sites and opportunities to grow.

I feel very well supported by my colleagues/manager/director. I often have private meeting with my line manager to discuss how I am feeling and how my sites are doing. Additionally, I would feel comfortable asking for additional support if required.

Our Degree Apprenticeship Coach does provide some support regarding the apprenticeship criteria, however this in contrast when it comes to academic studies. The support is varying by lecturer and you have to communicate via email (responses also vary).

Unfortunately, apart from critical thinking skills almost nothing on the course feels relevant to the role. There are multiple "work based learning" modules that feel like mindless work and typing for typings sake.

There are multiple networking, volunteering and social days for employees to attend attend. These are a great way to meet people and get to know people in the business. No sports teams yet but that's a good idea!

Yes

Overall, the apprenticeship is fantastic. I enjoy my role and enjoy the flexible working. One of the best aspects is being able to be promoted while still on the 5.5 year degree apprenticeship course. The money is great and there is opportunity for promotion. I would recommend this course instead of Uni to anyone interested in the field.

For applying for the Technical Degree Apprenticeship role I would advise appearing keen to learn about house/site design. The key skill is juggling lots of issues at once and remaining organised. For topics to revise before the interview I would suggest NHBC, new building regulations and maybe visit a built Barratt/David Wilson/Redrow site in the area to say you have been there. If you can get some experience on a building site as this knowledge will be key.