Transport Planning Apprentice Review

On a day to day basis I assist project managers, principals and many teams in project work and various tasks. I have been involved in different teams so get to do a variety of work. This challenges and helps you develop new skills. It is very computer based but going to college creates a nice balance and there is opportunities to go on site too. I use software and programmes daily for maps, reports and creating project documents.

I have improved many of my soft skills. For example communication through written reports and verbal presentations which are very useful and transferable skills. I have developed as a person and become more confident in the workplace. It is a big difference from school life but the experience is great. Also hard skills by using many different software's and learning technical knowledge. Learning on the job means you are progressing the exact skills you need for the career.

I enjoy working on a variety of projects and finding out how different countries and organisations work. Sometimes you are doing a lot of the same type of work but there is lots of opportunities to work in different sectors or teams and challenge yourself to learn a new skill. The college course was very enjoyable and meeting lots of people doing a similar job is great networking. Working full time is a big step but worthwhile for your career.

The programme is very well structured and is adjusting and adapting every year as it is still fairly new. I was introduced into the workplace well and received training. There is support from your colleagues and otter apprentices. There is a lot of senior management which can seem daunting at first but the graduates and other apprentices can help you and each other. There is also support from your mentors and from people at college.

My manger is supportive and its important to communicate with them a lot. They can help you on tasks and any issues/questions you have about you role or work life. HR are also helpful and reply to any questions you have. There is a community to ask HR questions and articles for your support as well as a phone line. There is lots of articles and guidance on the company's website and many people are open to your questions and there to support you.

My training provider have been very good and explained the qualifications and what our opportunities are for developing our career. They helped us achieve our qualifications and the tutors from the college are always available for you to contact. I enjoyed the college course and the block release was good because you could get to know the people on your course outside of a work environment. When preparing for your end point assessment they help you with problems and provide guidance.

What I learn on my college course and very much influenced my role on a day to day basis and I have put into practice theories I learnt. I have a greater understanding of projects and the industry as well as other sectors in the organisation and how they relate to what I do. My learning has influenced the quality of work I produce and I feel I understand the industry more after completing my qualification.

Previous to the pandemic, there was lots of social and sporting events to get involved in. We had quizzes for the office and for the sector. Our division had 3 other social activities a year as well. We were near spotting facilities so every week there was opportunity's for teams to play and participate there. We had Christmas socials and through STEM there was volunteering opportunities and events to be involved with the local community.

Yes

I would recommend Mott MacDonald because they are a very people based company that care about your personal development and your career. They have many great supportive teams to help you and there are lots of opportunities and projects to get involved in. They help you progress with your career and I have learnt so much about the industry, worklife and about myself while being in this role. They a inclusive and pride themselves on caring for the environment and equality.

Research about the company and find out about what projects they have worked on so you can gather an idea about how the company operates. Be honest in your application about what you enjoy because they can find opportunities for you to work in areas you like. In the interview they want to understand you as a person and what skills you have and I went for an assessment day before which was just to test maths and english before the interview.