Graduate Trainee Review

On the graduate scheme, we undertake 4 6-month placements over 2 years on different contracts around the UK. EQUANS works in facilities management and carbon neutral solutions which we are expected to learn about in detail during our time. We are expected to take on an operational role and a commercial placement but have the opportunity to do strategic, financial, and technical placements as well. Many of us have mentors across the company and we are encouraged to professionally grow and reflect throughout our time through the apprenticeship, placements and regular graduate retreats.

I have learnt around the handling and delivery of PFI contracts from an operational perspective. Including managing client relationships, operational delivery and team management. I have had many opportunities to lead my own projects through my placements and through projects the early careers team have found for the graduate scheme to take on. I am currently learning about tendering bids and mobilisation of new contracts while conducting market research for future opportunities. I have also been working on the delivery and advertisement of the 'zero carbon schools roadmap' where school assets and buildings are retrofit to be more sustainable.

I really enjoy my placements. So far, each team I have worked with has made me feel included and made me welcome which has made my experience very good. They have also be dedicated to helping me learn and professionally develop while there. The apprenticeship is delivered through Redsky which is a very supportive and caring team who genuinely seem interested in helping us reach our potential. I do not always enjoy graduate events with the early careers team. Although the early careers team is supportive and welcoming and do make a genuine effort to aid our professional development, on graduate retreats/events professionalism can be lost and expectations can be put on the grads and apprentices that are hard to meet. There is not always a caring and enjoyable culture on graduate events.

The programme is very well organised. Placement expectations and graduate expectations are clearly outlined. You will be supported in day-to-day questions and issues.

They are very supportive. They are always very willing to arrange meetings with us to discuss any problems or questions. We have regular 1-2-1's where any issues can be brought up and growth can be reflected on.

We receive 'stretch coaching' with each module to discuss any gaps in our knowledge and be supported through it. Our provider is always available for advice and meetings if necessary. We also undergo regular apprenticeship 'check-ins' to see if we're experiencing any issues to keep up with work etc. Redsky is a very good apprenticeship platform.

The apprenticeship goes over theoretical business challenges that often compliment the learning we do on placement. We have undertaken modules on budgeting and communication, leadership styles and been educated on situational awareness within the workplace. All of which are relevant to our everyday jobs.

Social activities often take place within office teams while you're on placements. The graduates are also encouraged to be friendly to one another from the beginning and support each other. EQUANS has a number of networking groups such as 'women in equans', the parenting network, 'LGBT+' network, 'RISE' network and the young professionals network. I would especially recommend the RISE network (dedicated to racial equality) as its a very supportive and influential network within equans.

Yes

Every job has pros and cons but I think EQUANS, Redsky and the early careers team (with the help of orangebox) do a great job of supporting us and teaching us while we learn.

Be sure you're happy with travelling and relocating as you will do A LOT of this on the job. EQUANS really values its health and safety culture so if you are building a business response to an interview question, Be sure to mention the importance of health and safety. Approach problems logically, attempt to encorporate business models and strategies into any proposals you make. Approach issues openly and fairly, considering EQUANS best interest as well as the clients best interests. There will be a compromise available.