Assistant Quantity Surveyor Review

by Costain

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Day-to-day roles include managing subcontract packages, completing critical tasks such as; subcontractor instructions, take offs, preparation of subcontractor valuations, cash flow forecasting, cost reporting, risk assessment, leading weekly subcontract progress meetings, knowledge on contracts, assisting in the agreement of variations and attending various meetings in order to maintain and develop appreciation for the project’s activities, whilst working towards client deadlines.

6/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I feel most days I continue to learn and develop existing skills. However, there are certain aspects of my role I need to develop further in, which I feel Costain should be more on top of.

7/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy, however, I feel that once you are in the role and doing the job the business can forget you are still learning and you do not have exposure to all aspects of the Quantity Surveyor Role. Costain are very supportive and do help, but this is only if you ask or look for it. I feel the learning and development team should be more involved with the apprentices.

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Similar answer to above. I feel there needs to be more involvement.

6/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I feel like the help and support is there massively. However, it is when you ask. Learning and development need to be more involved.

7/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I feel I gain more knowledge through working than university. Due to being at work four days a week you pick up more as you are doing the role. University is good for the basics of the role, but I do not feel I have used what I have learnt at university to my role.

7/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes. Costain are very good at this. Plus, there is also so much out there if you look yourself. This is something I am very involved in, I enjoy social activities/networking/volunteering etc.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Costain to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Costain have such amazing opportunities within this industry. The level of support and guidance that can be available to you.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Costain?

Research the company. Be proactive Want to learn - because in doing this anything can be achieved. If you are applying for Costain research the business and research the projects, as there are so many jobs that could be available it is worth researching to ensure you can go to where interests and you and suit your development needs.