Environmental Sustainability Apprentice Review

by Balfour Beatty

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.6/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I visit various sites throughout the week to complete environmental site visits. This includes speaking with the site team, writing reports and uploading information as part of it. Given the nature of construction, the sites change over time allowing room for new settings!

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learned the importance of data collection and data analysis and how to collate this data into a presentable format. I am also learning environmental science, so getting a grasp on the basics of environmental sustainability whilst learning the significance from a construction aspect.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my programme, as I am a part of TEAM2100 (EA, BB and Jacobs) which is a collective team protecting the Thames Estuary Assets. I am learning a lot of new things, and beginning to apply the things I have learned into situations on site, and offering solutions to environmental improvement enquiries. This means I float in between the various projects live on TEAM, and I am able to understand the variety of projects BB have. I speak to many people across different departments which enables me to network further across the company.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I think the structure and organisation is good. It is hard to be a leading industry in a topic that is still quite new, but that is the exciting part of being on this apprenticeship scheme too. The environmental team(s) across the projects will only expand as we progress into the future.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I am fully supported in my role, with my colleague working closely with me as well as my manager. The teams are also very supportive and are always willing to help if needed.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I receive a good amount of support from the University.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I think it aligns very well with my role, and exposes me to subjects I regularly deal with during my job.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes, there is a range of activities and events that are held throughout the year. There is also a great inclusion and diversity network group which empowers the workforce.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a well established and professional company that has prioritised sustainability, and has invested lots into becoming a leading industry in this. Not only this, but BB offers great apprenticeship / graduate schemes and treat their employees well throughout this. BB prioritises health, safety and the environment and strives to be successful and I think they are good reasons to work here alone.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?

Show enthusiasm for the topic you are applying for, and do some background research in order to understand the significance of the company. Look at BB's values and show how you can reflect them!