Rural Surveying Apprentice Review

As a Rural Surveying Apprentice, I help my line manager with her work which includes general estate management, securing loans for clients, valuing properties and sometimes selling them.

Being in an office (until covid) meant that I learnt many skills concerning proper filing, how to write professional letters and emails, as well as all the specific skills that are needed to do the job. I have developed my existing skills like time management, through balancing work and university, as well as arriving on time every day. I have also been encouraged to build a good work ethic, which is greatly helped by all the friendly and hard working people around me.

It can be challenging, but my routine leaves plenty of time for exercise and recreation. Especially when working from home, we have been allowed to adapt our hours (as long as we do the right amount each day), to keep sane.

Within Savills, my tasks and progression is made very clear through regular appraisals and reviews accompanied by even more regular chats with my line manager for feedback. For the most part UCEM have provided a very coherent learning platform that has been easy to follow and keep up with. I would appreciate a detailed university calendar on the home page so it is impossible to miss deadlines, and you know exactly what is coming next.

I have been supported every step of the way, firstly by the members of my office who have helped me learn the skills needed for this work, and keep me progressing. The apprenticeship staff of Savills keep carry out regular reviews, and make sure to encourage friendships between apprentices even if they are in different areas of the country.

The course itself is easy to understand and follow, and there is a host of guidance on the website from proper academic writing through to mental health awareness. I would like there to be an easier way to speak to someone and ask questions rather than the forums. As mentioned before I would also appreciate a comprehensive calendar unique to each student, that maps out the entire course.

Despite the fact I have only done two modules at this point, I have had to call on what I have learnt to help me in my job, which is very good to see.

I joined in the COVID-19 era, so real life events so far, but I have heard great things about the social outside of lockdown. They did hold a charity 'how far can you go' competition, which gave prizes to those who ran, cycled or canoed the furthest.

Yes

They are incredibly well organised, have a motivated staff, all of which will provide you with the best possible environment for learning and developing.

Learn how to write professional sounding letters and emails, this will help you make a great impression.