Apprentice Transport Planner Review

I am an apprentice transport planner, so I provide assistance on projects wherever I can. For instance, one project may require me to stay in the office and produce drawings whereas another project will need to me to go out on site and record observations. This means that I have the opportunity to work on many different projects, which allows me to experience many different aspects of being a transport planner. Working with others is also a big part as you have to work closely with colleagues in your office or others based around the UK. My responsibilities require me to arrive on work on time and complete work on projects to a high standard and ensure that it is completed on or before the deadline.

During this apprenticeship I am on day release at college where I am doing a level 3 BTEC in Civil Engineering. It is a two-year course which when completed will allow me to start a HNC in civil engineering. I am also doing a level 3 NVQ in Civil Engineering which is based in the office and what I learn throughout the course of the apprenticeship. I have also successfully completed a CSCS test and received my CSCS card which allows me to go on to construction sites. Whilst working in the office, I have learnt how to use AutoCAD which is a program used to produce drawings, and VISSIM, which is used to provide a realistic simulation of working roads and motorways. I have also improved other skills, such as organisation and punctuality. Communicating with others is another thing I have improved, as I have to talk to different people every day.

I enjoy being an apprentice a lot. The work that I am doing is interesting, and because I work on various projects it never seems dull or repetitive which means that I am learning something new every day. The team that I work with have really welcomed me and made me feel comfortable working here.

The company values its apprentices as I feel utilised, as there hasn't been a day where I haven't done anything. My manager has always made sure that I have work to do and that I know what I'm doing. I have been praised by people that I work with on projects which makes me feel appreciated and valued, motivating me to work even harder.

The programme structure is simple and is made very clear in terms of progression after the apprenticeship. Both the company and training providers inductions clearly show what the apprenticeship is going to be like, what is required of me, and what opportunities I will have after the apprenticeship is over.

My training provider comes into my work place once every month to discuss how things are going at the office. We talk about if I have any problems, have I had any issues with anything in the workplace and what is happening at college. They also review work that I do for my NVQ and are really supportive.

When working, my manager helps me do the work but also helps me learn. When I am undertaking a new task, he will let me get on with it first and see if I can I can do it myself and will then show and explain the task and how to do it correctly. The HR team are helpful as they contact you every once in a while, to see if everything is going well. Overall, I am certain that my employer wants me to do well as the level of support I receive from them will ensure that that is the case.

My salary meets all the needs that I have. It pays for my travel to work, food for lunch, social and daily costs. After all this I still have enough money to save up for other things. This is one of the best things about being an apprentice, that you are paid whilst you are learning. It beats having to go to college or university and having to work part time!

The company has many events which all employees can attend, such as the sports day which is being held in Bath this year. The office has a sports and social team which organize events for all of the office, such as pay day meals and other team building activities such as escape rooms. There are also sports clubs which employees can join.

Yes

I would recommend Mott MacDonald for various reasons. In terms of progression the company has many opportunities for its employees which I plan to take grasp of in the future. It has offices all around the world and many different sectors in which it operates in. I have only been here for 5 months but I have felt very welcomed and in terms of work, I feel I have been utilised and have learnt many things which will help me both during work, and in the real world.

The advice that I would give to people who are interested in applying is to be themselves. Ensure that you learn as much about the company and the sector that you will be working in before the interview. It is really helpful if you have some experience in something relating to engineering. It is also useful if you have achievements which show that you have been proactive and that you have a willingness to learn new things. Schemes like Duke of Edinburgh Award and NCS help a lot and talk about these in the interview. Most of all, good luck!