Quantity Surveyor apprentice Review

My day to day role involves logging delivery tickets onto the computer software and raising order numbers for materials to be bought or plant to be on hired. I also have the responsibility of ordering certain items that the site need. In addition to this my day to day role involves approving invoices that have been sent by different vendors to make sure they are charging this site for the correct things at the correct rate.

I have learnt new skills such as using software programmes that I have never used before. I have also developed my excel skills as a result of filling out and using many spreadsheets. My communication skills have also massively improved as I communicate with people in the office, on site, on the phone and by email.

I am at the point now where I am really enjoying my programme. This is a result of many skills being developed and now I have responsibility of certain things to do with this construction site. I am constantly learning and expanding my knowledge on construction through being on site and my time at college.

I would say that the programme is organised as accommodation is provided during the block release in college. If the apprentices had been told they have to move away then for the first 2 weeks on site they were entitled to staying in a hotel which bam would cover. This gave time for apprentices to find a place to live if they had to move away from home for their job. The only thing that I would like to see as an improvement is for the college block dates to be published earlier on in the year so I know when and when I can' use my annual leave

I receive enough support from my employer. I am encouraged to ask questions and if I'm ever not sure on something then I have enough support to be able to ask them and for them to help me. I feel a good level of support is given to me on the whole.

I have regular teams meetings to help me work towards my qualifications which is greatly appreciated. During my time on the college block the teachers ensured there was a way of contacting them. This was greatly appreciated as it enabled me to achieve the grades I wanted to achieve during my time in college

I would say my construction knowledge as a whole improved due to my time in college which was useful for when I went on site. However, a lot of that information isn't exactly relevant for a Quantity surveyor. Therefore, I would personally say that I've learnt more from actually doing the job.

Yes, we play 5 a side football once a week after work. This was a great way of getting to know the people I work with as well as it being enjoyable. During the college block I also played football once a week which was a good way of getting to know the other apprentices.

Yes

I would recommend Bam to a friend because they are a big company which provides a guaranteed job after the apprenticeship. Bam also offer a range of apprenticeships at a range of different levels which suit different people. Support is also given in order to help me develop skills to help me progress with my career

I would give the following tips and advice for someone applying to Bam: - Be yourself and answer questions honestly. -Read up on the role that you're applying for. - Make sure you are willing to work away from home as this may be a possibility for certain roles. - If you get the job and you're not enjoying it for whatever reason then I personally think it's important to keep an open mind and give it a few months at least to know if you enjoy the role