Project Manager Apprentice Review

by Arup

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.1/10

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

Managing projects at various stages - from a £50 million school relocation under construction to managing contracts for small projects with the Environment Agency. My roles include interacting with clients and contractors, managing design co-ordination and programmes. Very varied!

9/10

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

Yes - I have developed no end of skills, especially beginning online, learning to tackle homeworking as well as coming into the office. My excel skills have developed massively as well as learning how to integrate myself into a team and work with a number of disciplines.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I do enjoy my apprenticeship but I find myself working into the evening rather a lot to finish my tasks. Despite this, Arup is very good at flexible working so I can take time back if I have to work into the evening.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I have a bi-monthly meeting with my apprenticeship co-ordinator and regular meetings with my line manager and the wider team. However, ultimately it is my responsibility to manage my time and communicate where I best learn.

8/10

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

I receive a great deal of support from Arup - being able to work flexibly allows me to spend time on my assignments. Support is given to look over my university work if needed and everyone is so helpful with any queries or struggles I might have.

9/10

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

The University is entirely online so not a great deal of support is given.

5/10

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

I am only two modules into my university course but already I feel I can use what I have learned in Law and Management to manage my projects effectively.

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.)

Not that I am personally involved with - it is challenging with Covid - 19 and I am extremely busy with work and study but I think there are plenty of opportunities within Arup.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Arup to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Arup is a group of caring individuals who encourage growth and will stretch an individual to their limits. It has been an incredible experience for me so far and I would definitely recommend the company.

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

Research! Read the key speech, look into projects we have managed, try to align your experience to Arup's values around sustainability and inclusivity.