Apprentice Quantity Surveyor Review

by Balfour Beatty

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.5/10

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

I am in charge of managing different subcontractors and their costs on a construction project for example assessing their payment applications and ensuring it stays within their allowance as well as managing the overall costs of the project. I also correspond with the client about any issues on site.

8/10

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

I am studying towards a quantity surveying degree at Liverpool John Moores and I am given lots of opportunities for extra training courses. I have gained confidence in meeting and communicating with new people and I have gained a unique insight into how construction projects operate.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

So far I have really enjoyed the apprenticeship. Everyone I have worked with has been really friendly and welcoming. I have never been afraid to ask for extra help or support.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

There is a clear structure that sets out the duration of my apprenticeship which is shown by continuous checkpoint meetings with the emerging talent team and bi annual pay reviews.

7/10

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

My manager and the rest of the team is always happy to help if I have any questions or any issues. I was also provided with a buddy who is a fellow apprentice a few years ahead in the programme if I ever have any questions.

9/10

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

I attend university 1 day a week and I have meetings once a term with my manager at work and my personal tutor at university to discuss my progress and any issues. It is also easy to book additional meetings if needed.

8/10

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

The degree course is relevant to the job but I have not applied anything I have learnt so far and I do not feel it has benefitted me much other than getting a degree qualification.

5/10

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.)

There isn't much but every site/office has a Christmas party and you can get 3 paid volunteer days a year.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is one of the biggest companies in the construction industry so there is lots of opportunities to move around and work in different areas of the business with different people.

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

Research the job role and the project you are applying to work on. And connect with people on LinkedIn if possible.