Civil Engineer Apprentice Review

As an apprentice engineer, I am currently working in the rails division building two new train lines, a new station and footpath. It is a large project that is truly exciting to be working on. I measure and set out locations for contractors to work in. I can also be expected to survey locations and take levels and measurements. I follow experienced people who help me through every step of the way.

I have just received a qualification level 3 through Leeds college of building. I have been through a series of internal training courses including health and safety and environmental awareness to help me progress in the industry. I have learnt many new skills through this apprenticeship from using the equipment to simply communicating correctly to a team.

The college experience in Leeds was very good as accommodation and transport was provided. I thoroughly enjoy working on site as you get to work with a variety of different people and every day is a new experience. The company are very keen to ensure you get the most out of your program and are in constant communication to ensure your expectations are being met.

The structure to the programme works very well as you aren't 'thrown in at the deep end' so to speak. The 12 weeks in college help you learn the important skills before you go out to work and the training and support throughout your time on site is constant. You are allowed study time during work hours to ensure you complete the college assignments you have been set.

You are assigned a mentor when you first start on site who shows you the ropes when you start. While you are trusted to be able to go out and do things by yourself, there is no issue at all should you need any guidance. My line manager and HR team are always close by too should you have any further issues.

During the time through your apprenticeship, you are set tasks by the college. This includes regular skype calls with your college tutor to ensure you are on the right path and, if you have any queries, you can bring them up in those. I can also text my apprenticeship leader and get a response instantaneously.

The qualifications from the training provider work well with the job role. You learn how to use some of the equipment, the maths that you may need, how to be safe and how to be environmentally aware. Without the college guidance, it would be difficult to be able to perform well in my day to day work.

During college times there are plenty of activities/events to get involved in. There were opportunities to go bowling and race car driving through our time there. Sports clubs ect are also available.

Yes

I feel that BAM Nuttall really care about ensuring that you have the best experience possible, apprenticeship or not. Your opinion is valued and they want you to achieve the best that you can do. You receive the qualifications and experience needed throughout.

Go in to it hoping to achieve the best you can. Learn about the company before the interview and research interview questions too. Hard work is praised and accounted for. You may have to move around due to the location of work so you have to be prepared for that possibility. Overall, an excellent experience.