Apprentice Quantity Surveyor Review

I am involved in managing a live construction contract, dealing with valuing works, reviewing costs, managing both client and contractor expectations and ensuring deadlines are met.

I have developed new skills involving communication and negotiation and technical skills specific to my job role such as measuring and costing construction projects and understanding and managing legal contracts.

My programme is entirely remote learning, therefore it took an adjustment period to manage my own time and ensure I was keeping up with the programme around a full time job with little 1 to 1 support, however the programme itself has been invaluable and has allowed me to take what I learn at university and apply it to my job role.

I find overall the programme is well structured and applies to my job role, however I do find that the structure and support varies depending on the individual module tutor.

My employer is keen for all of its apprentices to succeed and assists with internal study groups, and an interal apprentice programme to develop soft skills alongside the university teaching the technical skills.

I have a meeting once a quarter to ensure I am staying on track with the course content and not falling behind. Again, depending on the individual module depends on support with the course material. Some tutors are happy to help and encourage students to book in 1-2-1 sessions, however others wish for students to work independently and learn via the main programme designed for all students, which can be an issue as different people learn differently and I don't believe this is accounted for.

I find that the modules I study apply to my job role and improve my technical skills greatly. The course has been designed to build upon itself, so each semester I find I can learn topics more in depth due to the foundation knowledge I have learnt the previous semester. The course is also RICS accredited and aligns with the expected pathway for Quantity Surveyors.

As mentioned previously, there is an apprenticeship programme to support apprentices in developing soft skills. These events are held both online and in person around the country, allowing me to meet my peers and network with other apprentices. There are also office socials and events and programmes for early career professionals to get involved in to help build professional networks.

Yes

Mott MacDonald has been a great support in my career so far, and has so much to offer to any young professional.

Be keen, confident and most importantly be yourself.