Apprentice Quantity Surveyor Review

I am Currently placed at Hinkley point C where I shadow and help other Quantity surveyors. I am often assisting in making estimates for change, or reconciling accounts so that suppliers and subcontractors can be paid. I rarely go on site (once a month) but when I do I enjoy it. I also spend blocks at college where so far I have learned some of the very basics about construction.

Yes I have started to learn the main skills for a quantity surveyor. I am also learning how to deal with a larger workload and prioritising certain tasks. I have developed my communication with others whether this is colleagues or suppliers and subcontractors. These communications may be over the phone, via email or in person.

Overall I do enjoy the programme, especially at college as there were other apprentices to socialise with. Now on placement, despite enjoying the place of work it can be stressful fitting in the additional college work given to us while we are working. I think the company could set up more events whilst we are at work to meet back up with apprentices in small groups to check on our progression.

The first college block was already organised before I started so in that aspect it was organised. We have already been told when our next college block is so that has been plenty of warning which is good. However I did not find out where I would be on placement for work until a couple of weeks before I moved. This was not ideal as it left very little time to prepare travel and housing arrangements. Once at work there was very little structure, however this is not necessarily a bad thing as it means you are not restricted.

We are made aware to never hesitate to contact our mangers if we need help or advice. I have not been in any of these situations so do not know how good their support would be. Bam Nuttall as a company has a good reputation for supporting their employees well.

Personally I felt I received adequate support as I was motivated to achieve the highest grade possible. However come course tutors were not as helpful as others. It was a relatively easy first qualification, and so minimal support was required. The tutors often identified the individuals struggling and were able to help them more.

After the whole apprenticeship I have a lot of confidence that the qualification will help me perform better. However, the level 3 course I completed at the start of my employment has no relevance to my work and so I felt the course should have been different. However the qualification does help people in the workplace understand what level I am at.

Whilst at college the college sports coordinator help us get set up in a 5 a side football league. This was very enjoyable as it gave us something to do socially. Bam nuttall do set up the odd event such as a meal which they treat us too but not regularly.

Yes

Because I am come out with a lot of experience as well as a good qualification in a well set up company. The pay is relatively good for a first year apprentice with no experience. They take on around 20-30 apprentices so there are others to socialise with which is nice when we live away as it keeps the atmosphere lively.

I would advise being prepared to live away from home for long periods. Even if you believe there is a project near you it does not mean you can be placed there for work. Bam nuttall do pay for travel home at the weekends so they do try to help this situation. I would say over 50% of my current year are living away from home.