Apprentice Quantity Surveyor Review

As an apprentice quantity surveyor, I am involved with overseeing the costs associated with civil engineering projects. My day to day involves raising subcontract orders and making payment authorisations. Deliveries to site are regular so this needs to be monitored by uploading details onto our cost monitoring systems. I am mainly office based but also spend time during the week on site to observe and understand the project at hand. Regular communication with co-workers is pivotal to ensure everything runs smoothly.

I acheived a Level 3 subsidiary diploma in Construction in the built environment at Leeds College of Building in a 12 week college block. Since being on site, I have developed an understanding of cost monitoring systems used within BAM and the procedure behind subcontractor payments to enable them to be paid successfully.

I have enjoyed the programme thoroughly. During the 12 week college block, you get to meet like minded people with similar interests and make great relationships as a group. On my placement, everyone has been extremely helpful in showing me how to complete various tasks which makes learning what you need to know far easier.

The college block was structured well to begin with however by the end, the content was being taught and deadlines being set relatively quickly. This was for various reasons but this could be improved with an extra week or two at college. The site placement has been structured very well and you know where to be and your expectations.

Everyone at BAM has been really supportive since I began my apprenticeship. If you do have any concerns or issues, there is always somebody to approach and talk to. Also, you have the opportunity to talk to someone anonymously by phone. this year, they have introduced a mentoring scheme which is yet to begin but shows BAM go out of their way to accommodate their employees' needs.

At Leeds College of Building, there is plenty of support offered from the tutors to help you achieve what you want to. They have your best interests in mind and give you plenty of opportunities to approach them if you are having any problems. Don't be hesitant to take up these opportunities.

My Level 3 subsidiary diploma has not had much association with the tasks I am doing on my placement however it has provided me with important information regarding the construction industry which will be needed throughout my career especially specific health and safety legislation and procedures on site. Also, the assignments do help you improve your writing and mathematical skills.

As a group at college, we set up two 5-a-side football teams and played mid-week which brought us closer together as a group. This gave us a break from the assessments and deadlines which we had at college. There are various other sports classes that you can join at college and I would recommend this.

Yes

BAM offer a great opportunity to start your career path. They are a very supportive employer and have your best interests in mind. The qualifications that can be achieved, the salary and the added benefits are second to none. BAM work on a range of projects which gives you a chance to learn different skills and meet new people within the industry regularly.

Work as hard as you can and the recognition will follow. Working as part of a team is essential in successful projects. Applying yourself and your knowledge in situations goes a long way. When you start at college, get to know your group as this makes learning and living together far easier and more enjoyable. Moving away can be hard but everybody is in the same situation.