Degree Apprentice Transport Planner Review

I am a member of several project teams and work for a range of project managers. My typical tasks involve: setting up reports, writing policy reviews, providing research for more senior members of the team and leading stakeholder engagement tasks. I try to get involved in as much as possible so to broaden my skills set.

I have and am continuously developing my communication skills due to working with a variety of people, in a variety of teams. This also means that I have had to learn to be flexible and manage my time effectively, especially with balancing work and university. I have had to learn to ask for help if I am unsure.

I very much enjoy my programme due to the variety of work that I get involved in and I am also involved in several client meetings which I love as it really makes you feel a part of the team. I do find it challenging at times but love the potential that my role has.

My programme is well structured - we have been informed which modules we will do for Uni and when and it is useful that I have a tripartite review which includes both my employer and university. I am not yet sure what my final assessment will look like but I am encouraged to always have this in mind.

My immediate team are very supportive and are always available if I am struggling or need to talk through something. They are very supportive of my Uni work too and show interest in what I am doing. I also receive dedicated training time to help meet the the apprenticeship requirements.

My lecturers are always available to email and are happy to have teams calls to discuss matters if I am unsure on anything to do with the work. They communicate well so I know what is expected of me and the tripartite reviews I have really help me to fully understand my programme.

I think that my degree helps me to perform better in my role by improving my time management skills, attention to detail, academic writing skills and by encouraging me to think about things academically as well as practically. It also gives context to a lot of work I do by going into things in more detail than many projects that I work on do. Sometimes it is too much detail for my role though.

Arcadis offer social activities within the office, through early careers networking events and notify us if there any events of interest going on. I am encouraged to take part in more than just my job as it is hybrid working and Arcadis see the value in getting people together.

Yes

Arcadis have a great 'people first' culture therefore you always feel supported and know that there are people who can help you. Also, there is so much potential within the company as Arcadis work on some of the best and biggest upcoming projects. There is so much more offered to you than just the job, it is a great work culture to be a part of.

I would advise to be yourself. It is also important to always stay professional and to always be committed to the task at hand, to never be afraid to ask for help and to always try to help others. You need to be prepared to take control of your career and to work hard in balancing uni and work.