Civil engineering degree apprentice Review

by Balfour Beatty

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.8/10

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

At the moment I'm working in the planning team meaning I spend my days creating, updating, reviewing programmes from the subcontractors. Every day is different and I often find myself working on tasks with various people from different teams and going on site walks to view progress on the works I plan.

9/10

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

My It skills have grown greatly since I first started my apprenticeship along with my knowledge in construction. I have become far more confident in speaking in important situations and along with this my communications skills have grown, allowing me to build better relationships and work more effectively.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

My programme is very enjoyable. Initially in was quite daunting as there was so much to take in at once, however as I have settled in, built relationships and got a strong grasp of the scheme It has become a more enjoyable experience.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

My programme is well organised. The programme is structured so that you rotate between roles in the project every 6 moths to gain lots of experience and exposure and you attend university one day a week. There is also a lot of training courses and events you can attend.

9/10

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

My employer helps me a lot. I have help from my lectures and university lead to assist in the degree side of things. I have an apprenticeship lead to help with everything apprentice as well as my mentor. I then have a Company and project manager which help me where I need. Not to mention my team and all my colleagues who are always happy to help, guide and advise in anyway.

9/10

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

My training providers do help a lot as they give any help they can during the lectures and after them. Furthermore they are always contactable via email and send out communications to ensure your always up to date. Furthermore every 3/4 months we have update and review meeting with our provider and mentor.

8/10

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

My qualification helps me to understand civil engineering as a whole and touches on area that I wouldn't at work. Furthermore It allows me to link the things I learn to the things I see on site and at work.

9/10

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.)

Yes there is always lots going on. We have monthly team socials where we will get together somewhere for an activity. There are bouldering teams, football teams and many more. There are also alot of project wide events that go on both on site and outside of site.

9/10

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

Yes

9b. Why?

They put their employees first. They ensure you enjoy what you are doing and are learning and developing your career, making sure they do everything they can to better you.

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

Be yourself, be happy and ask any questions you may have. They are looking for someone passionate who is keen to learn and develop themselves.