Trainee Quantity Surveyor Review

As part of a 3 man QS team on a medium/large job I carry out the process of site instructions to sub contractors ensuring I understand the reasoning behind the instruction and whether the cost is recoverable. I also have a list of subcontractors who I receive payment applications from which I vet and process payment. I also play a role in forecasting and CVR's.

I have learnt many new skills over the six months I have been on the apprenticeship, much of this has been on Excel and payment processes and construction knowledge.

I think the programme has a good balance between university study and real working experience which I am enjoying. However, I do feel that the course work deadlines could be spread out a bit better to allow for adequate time to get the best result possible.

I feel valued by Sisk as I have been given responsibility in looking after some large subcontractors accounts and feel like I am part of the team to complete the job to a high standard. Sisk have been very helpful in helping me through my university work and training requirements.

In regard to the UCEM programme I think the course is structures adequately; however, I feel like some of the learning material needs improvement especially the online text books. There has also been quite a bit of change of personnel on one of my courses. In regard to Sisk, again I feel that they have provided my time to carry out my university studies along with on the job training. I have been given a lot of responsibility which has allowed me to learn quickly.

The support from UCEM is good, I have regular reviews which I feel I can raise any issues/questions and get a response quickly. In addition, I would like a more of a face to face interaction in some capacity to meet the lecturers. I feel that the conversation forums on the VLE are sometimes difficult to follow as there are many threads. Lecturers sometimes do not give clear answers to questions, possibly due to questions being asked over a forum and not face to face.

I receive good support from Sisk. my line manager and other colleagues are there to answer my questions as well as a very supportive HR Department.

As I am living in London I do find the salary difficult to manage. I understand that this is an apprenticeship; however, I feel like I am doing enough to be earning more. I am able to claim travel expenses which is very useful. I hope to have regular pay increases whilst over the next few years before I graduate.

As I am based in London there are always things to go to and see be that with work or socially. However, the salary is a bit of a hindrance to this.

Yes

As said above, they are very supportive and I feel valued. I like the rather flat organisational structure.

Willingness to learn and have a flexibility to move to different job types and colleagues. Some experience in construction would be very helpful to discuss in an interview and as a head start in the training programme.