Apprentice Surveyor Review

On a day-to-day basis I assist the surveyors within my department - this involves going out on viewings, responding to enquiries and speaking to clients. I also help out with the compliance side of things - making sure that all of the properties which we market are compliant with current regulations. I also spend one day a week doing off-the-job training, which involves studying or shadowing other departments.

I have learnt many new skills as part of my apprenticeship. Coming from a background with little knowledge of property, I have development my understanding of the industry and how to communicate with clients. I have developed both my confidence in the role and my communication both to external clients and with colleagues.

I would say that I enjoy my programme fairly well. As someone who did not want to go to university, it seemed to be a natural progression for me to go into a degree apprenticeship. Working while studying has provided with a better understanding of what is needed from me in the working environment, and has given me a sense of stability with my career which I would not have gained if I had gone down the tradition university route.

I do believe that the structure of the programme is very flexible, which is extremely helpful when you are working in a face-paced role where you may need to swap / change the study days as required. Having an online university platform which is tailored to apprentices helps out a lot when managing the studying side of things - as I have the chance to catch up on any work which I may not have been able to complete during the week,

From my experience, my line manager has been very supportive of me. However, I do feel as if the support from the apprenticeship team within my organisation has not provided the best support. I did not feel as if I received enough communication from the apprenticeship team prior to starting my university course, and felt that my line manager and myself were left to figure it out on our own.

I find my training provider to be very supportive. I find the structure and flexibility of their course to be very helpful and feel that they understand what is it like to be an apprentice. My training provider has provided several opportunities for me to attend networking and conference events, and has invited me to be on a panel when revalidating their courses. I feel like my training provider cares for my opinions. My training provider also engages with quarterly meetings with my line manager and I, and often call me when I have assignments due to ensure I am on track.

Studying for a degree in real estate has helped me develop my understanding of my role. However, as I have only just completed my first year, most of my modules have been residential focused while I am working in the commercial side of the industry. Therefore, though my qualification has directly related to my day-to-day work, it has helped develop my knowledge of other areas of the industry which I will need to use in the future,

There are several opportunities for me to get involved in extra-curricular activities. Within the office we have a social committee which I am involved with - where we meet to discuss social events being help within our office. There is also a young professional network in the city which our office encourages us to get involved with. This involves networking with other young professionals in the area.

Yes

Savills provides many opportunities to its employees. I feel supported in my career, and I believe that many other employees would agree. I have already recommended Savills to a friend, and that friend now works in the same office. They also feel as if Savills will support their career and will provided them with the opportunities they require to achieve their goals.

I would advise that you do your research. The assessment centres and interview stages can be quite challenging, so doing research into the company and role you are applying for will help you. It may also be a good idea to get experience with assessment centres or interviews online. I would also recommend having an idea of your aspirations and goals, as having these at hand will demonstrate why you will be a good fit for the role.