Rural Surveying Apprentice Review

Day to Day my role comprises a mixture tasks. Primarily I deal with Estate Management matters such as repairs, rent reviews, rent chasing, reletting etc. there are many other tasks that require a great deal of problem solving, which we have to deal with whilst maintaining a god relationship with the tenants and client.

Through study and work I have learnt a great many skills. Notably I have learnt how to draft professional correspondence, part of this is practicing accuracy in all my work so that it is accurate and without mistakes. I have also learnt about various legislation by which we need to conduct our business.

I found the programme to be very enjoyable. The work I do is varied and interesting and there is a great network of apprentices and staff who are all very friendly. Savills often hold events across multiple offices that give you a chance to get to know your colleagues both senior and junior.

There is a clear framework leading from the university course into the professional exams at the end of the five years. Each academic year is broken neatly into two halves which allow, you study one day out of every week, which allows a good mixture of work and study, this is adequate time to fit in all the content whilst learning relevant lessons through work.

There is a fantastic and extensive network of people in Savills who are all happy to help. I have often requested help from colleagues I have never met in different areas of the business when I need help with my studies, and regardless of seniority they are always willing to help. There is also a strong network of other apprentices.

Savills provide in house training towards my professional exams ( the APC ), they arrange for members of staff to mentor and monitor your progress towards the final assessment. Your line manager will ensure that you are given relevant experience in all the areas required to pass the APC, they will tutor through the project needed for your case study and provide advice on the write up.

The course material is very varied and covers a wide variety of issues. In more niche area such as construction technology, the knowledge gained through study provides valuable insight into how best to identify, find a contractor for and repair any issues that may or may not be present on an estate.

There are plenty of activities hosted by Savills. Annually there is a northern region get together where there isn't a mention of work, it is purely about getting to know your colleagues in the region better. Savills also have a rugby sevens team among other sports and will hold graduate sports days.

Yes

I think Savills are very experienced in hosting apprentices, they know what is required to make them throve. they make sure you are paired with a keen and knowledgeable line manager who will get the best out of your potential. They are a large enough firm that if you wish to experience a different type of work you an always try and get experience in a different area of the business.

I would advise anyone to ask their local office for the chance to do work experience, from my experience everyone will be happy to help. This is often the best way to see if you would enjoy the style of work, the office environment, the culture and most importantly the people around you. Having Savills staff to vouch for you when it comes time to apply will also make all the difference.