Degree Apprentice Civil Engineer Review

Attending University 1 day a week. Completing University Coursework and watching revision videos to ensure that I have consolidated my learning at university this week. Attending meetings reviewing the work complete and looking ahead to the next worksites. Writing work package plan documents and task briefs for upcoming work sites.

I have been with Balfour Beatty for 6 months and I have received many training opportunities, including a 5 day setting out course, fire safety and fire marshal training, initial first aid at work training and mental health first aider training, these training courses will not only support my workplace development but prove me with skills that will be useful in day to day life.

I enjoy getting to see what I am learning in university be applied in my workplace. I enjoy the Early Careers programme provided by Balfour Beatty as it allows me to learn about the company and meet other early careers and understand their experiences. Though meeting other people in the industry you get to understand how big Balfour Beatty really is and the opportunities available.

The Balfour Beatty Early Careers programme focuses on leading self, the programme is well structures over 2 years containing 6 modules, where you learn about yourself, the company and the other early careers. You get to build your transferable skills and attend 2 team building residentials in the Lake District.

My employer is really understanding of how difficult studding a degree is while working at the same time. My line manager insures that I have enough time dedicated to keep on top of my university before providing me with additional work. My line manager ensure that I am supported where ever I need it and makes sure that I am not overloaded.

My training provider provides plenty of resources to consolidate my knowledge. At times the online content can be a bit overwhelming with my materials module having up to 5 hours required content to watch outside of the university day. The mathematics and mechanics content starts off similar to what is covered A-Level maths and physics getting progressively more difficult, plenty of external resources provided if extra reading is needed.

My qualification so far has helped me to understand the materials used in industry. I am still adjusting to my role and picking up more work and believe that as I develop more and continue through my modules that they will start to interlink further, and support my leaning together.

I am a STEM ambassador and volunteer to try to get the next generations interested in the construction industry and inform them on the different option available. My workplace offers me professional networking events and there are regular social activities organised in my office environment to allow team building and a comfortable environment. Office Volunteer days are organised to positively impact the communities.

Yes

I work in a really friendly and supportive office, which everyone would be lucky to experience and work in. I would recommend the Balfour Beatty Early Careers Programme to anyone looking for apprentices, graduate schemes or placements as the programme is well organised and there are plenty of opportunities available.

Be yourself. Apply your experiences and make them relevant. The time and effort is worth it in the end. Be prepared. Make sure you know which areas of the business you are applying to, Balfour Beatty is a huge company with work in many areas of construction. Do your research.