Apprentice Civil Engineer Review

by Balfour Beatty

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9/10

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

my day-to-day tasks involve setting out works accurately using surveying equipment, preparing and reviewing Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) to ensure work is built to specification, and carrying out quality assurance checks. I also actively support health and safety on site, ensuring all activities are compliant with regulations and promoting a safe working environment.

10/10

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

I have improved my communication skills, learning how important clear and accurate information is when working with site teams, subcontractors, and supervisors. I have also developed strong teamwork skills, understanding how essential collaboration is to delivering projects successfully. This is something I struggled with before starting work.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my programme as it allows me to take on real responsibilities on site and be part of major projects from start to completion. Seeing the progress each day and knowing I contribute to the final result is very rewarding.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Extremely well organised. We have our set days for university and we have an allowance with extra study days that we may need. Because it is 5 years we have a lot of experience in different packages of works like drainage, earthworks, tarmac ect

10/10

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

My employer is very supportive, there is different groups of people I am able to talk to, that might be line manager or other degree apprentices that have been in my position before. There is a group of us and we all allocate time to eachother.

10/10

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

Extra study days if required leading up to exams, help with coursework from other apprentices that have already completed the course

10/10

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

I do feel like the degree is mainly just a tick box. Regarding my day to day role, there is not much I have taken from university into work - most of the knowledge I am gaining is from work.

4/10

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.)

Plenty of social activities, we have a running club and lots of professional networking events.

8/10

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

Yes

9b. Why?

I would recommend Balfour Beatty because they offer great hands-on experience, real responsibilities from early on, and strong support for learning and development. The focus on teamwork and delivering high-quality, major projects makes it a great place to build a career.

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

My advice to anyone joining Balfour Beatty would be to take every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in as much as you can, ask questions, and learn from the experienced people around you — it will make a huge difference to your development.