Valuation Surveyor Review

Administering casework and processing requests from Local Authorities in regard to the Non-Domestic Rating List as is our statutory obligation. I would process alterations, corrections, reconstitutions, deletions and new list entries ensuring this was done to the best of my abilities within the confines of the legislation that guides my agency and the standards set forth by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) whilst protecting the integrity of the rating list.

Through my apprenticeship I have developed my existing skills in communication, customer service and building rapport with others however I have also grown professionally. I became a qualified property inspector and broadened my skills and knowledge regarding property, surveying, health and safety at work, sustainability, law, economics and building pathology / construction technology.

I thoroughly enjoyed my programme. My workplace (VOA) was incredibly supportive, and my provider (JACE) were consistently on hand to guide me when it was required. I was able to learn the required content at my own pace and probe where I needed to, I look back on this experience fondly.

Very well structured programme. After hearing that some departments discouraged study time, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the VOA actively encouraged 20% off the job learning time. This meant I was able to attend my lectures every other week as well as the alternating weeks support sessions provided by JACE with time to process information and prepare my submissions without feeling an imbalance in workload

I feel quite lucky with the support I received. The VOA is actively looking to build it's numbers of qualified and knowledgeable professionals so I was encouraged to take study time, shadow experienced colleagues and build relationships so that I could reach out to specialists in my profession for support and guidance.

JACE were wonderful. my tutor was incredibly knowledgeable and taught in an informative yet relaxed format. I must have spoken to at least five different people all from JACE with a specialism whether it was about content or writing style. Regular check-ins ensured that any concerns were raised and shared between JACE and my employer and action plans made on top of the fact that all of the lecturing staff were available through more informal (email) means toom on top of the guided lectures and support sessions.

I have consistently said to my peers that I'm glad to have undertaken my Level 3 as it has given me a wonderful foundation knowledge of my profession as a surveyor. I feel it has prepared me more for my role that any training or induction process could have whilst simultaneously allowing me to develop within my organisation.

I have been actively encouraged to engage in apprenticeship and professional body events having travelled to London from Liverpool at least 4 times over the course of my apprenticeship for seminars, conferences and training events. However, the VOA offers inter-office sports tournaments, regularly engages in charity days and regularly celebrate milestones with social events involving a large proportion of the office.

Yes

In my short professional life, I have worked a range of jobs spanning sales, customer service, retail, fast food, and bar work and I can honestly say that I love my job. I enjoy my work and the challenge I get from it. On top of this, I have been encouraged to climb professionally, securing 2 promotions since I joined, a professional accreditation and a new career path. The benefits of being a Civil Servant far outweigh my role in the private sector.

Go for it! Read all the materials you can and have at least a vague interest in property. Most people have never heard of the VOA - I hadn't - but don't be put off by that. There's a lot to learn so be prepared for that, but once you know it, you'll be grand!