Apprentice Civil Engineer Review

My day to day activities include conducting inspections on a variety of our clean water assets including reservoirs, service reservoirs, water towers, contact tanks, tunnels, shafts and slow sand filters. I also have to write up reports on these inspections as well as other calculations and data work to help manage our assets.

At the start of my apprenticeship I had nearly no understanding of civil engineering but since I have started uni and my work have helped me get a better grasp on the industry I am working in and all the responsibilities that it comes with. It really helps me being able to learn something at uni then apply in my job.

I personally really enjoy my programme as I get to do a variety of inspections and travel to all different areas and London and Thames Valley which means each week for me varies and Im not just stuck in the office 9-5 everyday. This helps me understand the role of what I'm doing and how it helps the business.

I feel my programme is very well organised from the onboarding process to our meetings with the apprentice engagement partners where we can ask any questions in terms of assistance if we feel we are falling behind. But also the meeting with Uni and my line manager are useful as it helps to ensure you aren't falling behind academically as well.

So far only 4 and a bit months in I haven't received much support because I haven't felt I have needed it. Regardless of my needs I am aware of who I could go to if I ever feel I need extra help but my colleagues have been very helpful with everything so far.

From my training provider I receive quarterly reviews which update me on how I am doing in terms of attendance and grades. In these meeting I am able to request support to assist me with working towards my qualifications but I have not had to request these services as of yet.

My qualification so far has assisted me in my day to day role but over time when I begin to learn more and expand my knowledge I feel this will be increasingly useful and really give me an upper hand compared to people who have just gone through uni to obtain their degree.

In my job there are opportunities for social activities and calls which can be used to network and understand more about the business. There are also other activities such as a raft race and a few other sporting activities and Im sure there will be more to come in the fututre.

Yes

I feel there is a good work life balance here at Thames and I really enjoy what I get to do. My colleagues here are extremely helpful with any questions I have. I also really enjoying being able to inspect all the major assets and understand more about the history of the company.

If you are looking to apply to Thames Water I would advise learning the values at the company as these are very important to everyone working here. Also I would ensure that you are confident in your answers and try to come up with some pertinent questions for the interviewer which not many people will ask to help set you out from the bunch.