Apprentice quantity surveyor Review

On a day to day basis, I am required to monitor the progress of jobs that have been worked on within the month. This can be done through site visits, communicating with supervisors and operatives or using track sheets. I use Excel to keep record of this, followed by using Oracle to review costs for each job in order to prepare for month end.

I have developed my communication skills as although I am mainly office based, I communicate with supervisors, operatives and subcontractors both face to face and via Teams calls. Additionally, I have developed my computer skills using different softwares, especially Excel, now being more aware of how I can use different formulas to save time.

I really enjoy my apprenticeship, both on the job learning and my university study. I feel like I have a good balance between work and university work, as my line manager allows me to complete university work in my spare time which also helps with work - life balance. My university modules relate well with my job on a daily basis which helps me apply things in the workplace.

I feel my programme is well structured. Monday - Thursday I am at work, mainly in the office with a few site visits scheduled in. On a Friday, I have my university lectures which are online between 9-11:30. My first module 9-10, and my second module 10-11:30. Having the same structure each week allows me to effectively plan when I can do additional studying.

Balfour Beatty have an internal scheme for apprentices which is beneficial as it allows for more networking, which helps to meet people who are in similar situations. Additionally, my line manager is very supportive, and encourages me to take every opportunity I get to gain more knowledge within the workplace. My line manager is also supportive of my university work, ensuring my workload is not too much.

Although my university is online, my tutors and module leaders are always contactable via email and teams, and respond quickly to any query. Extra sessions have been scheduled by certain tutors for drop in sessions and any queries which is beneficial as you can hear other peoples concerns which may be similar to my own.

My university modules are relevant to the work I do in my workplace, allowing me to use specific examples at work in my university assignments. Additionally, my university modules have helped me understand the legal side of things such as contracts and health and safety regulations. This ensures I follow good practice.

All apprentices are enrolled in an early careers programme with Balfour Beatty that lasts for 2 years. This involves different activities such as weeks away at the Lake District, Teams calls etc. The aim of this is to work on team building skills and meet people who you may work more closely with in the future.

Yes

There are lots of opportunities within Balfour Beatty, and I work in an office with people who have worked in the construction industry for a long time, therefore their knowledge is great. There are a range of projects in different areas which you are updated on regularly, and therefore can see how we are impacting the world.

Research your job role, as well as Balfour Beatty as a company to understand what would be expected of you. Ensure you have good communication skills as a main part of the job is communicating with a range of people in order for the works to be completed without any issues, and within time frame and budget.