Apprentice Cost Consultant Review

My role largely revolves around administering the construction contract and supporting the project team. As an apprentice, I was given support on how to complete these tasks before taking them on myself. I've also grown to regularly converse with the contractors and clients having picked up more experience over the years.

I have. Upon first joining the apprenticeship, I had no practical experience in the field so I learned all of my skills at my company. I have massively expanded on my knowledge of construction contracts and how they function - particularly in NEC4 contracts and how to use them appropriately. I also understand project programmes and forecasts much better.

I have enjoyed my apprenticeship as it has given me a fast track into my career whilst also allowing me to complete my academic journey as well. However, I understand that the apprenticeship is a big sacrifice compared to the traditional university route as there is a far greater responsibility.

I feel that the structure of my apprenticeship was initially very poor. Originally, I felt a bit lost and didn't know who to turn to for assistance. There was also a lack of connection as I was the only apprentice in my particular office but my university helped to provide some structure.

The structure from my employer has been quite poor with a general lack of guidance from the outset. I have definitely had to rely on colleagues outside of the apprenticeship scheme far greater than those within it. I do feel a far better structure is required to onboard apprentices and am aware that my employer is working on this.

My training provider has massively helped me in gaining my qualifications. Having been given a designated apprenticeship outcomes officer, I feel that I always have an appropriate point of contact should I have any queries regarding my training. All of the staff that I have spoken to have also been very helpful.

I think practical experience is far more important and that a similar level of skill and proficiency could be achieved without undergoing any further education. I feel that other accreditation in the industry can be of more use than a traditional level 5,6,7 qualification and would recommend this. I have still utilised my degree to an extent.

Due to Covid, there were not a lot of these during my original onboarding which did impact how socially connected I felt to the business. These have come back over the last 12-18 months but not on a frequent basis. I would prefer to have more of these in the future.

Yes

I think the company does put its employees first and I do feel very welcome here. I think the benefits that the company offers are also reasonable. However, I wish there was more organisation surrounding my onboarding process and still feel that there are development points around the apprenticeship and gaining the relevant experience.

Ensure that you are in frequent contact with other apprentices and try to see these in person on a frequent basis (preferably weekly minimum). I would recommend asking as many questions as possible and taking a real interest in your role and the industry or project that you have been placed on.