Civil Engineering Apprentice Review

I attend college one day a week in order to achieve my level 3 btec qualification. At work, i undertake a number of tasks including creating construction specifications, risk registers, designing car parks and steps. I am part of the airports team and am currently working on Heathrow Airport.

I have learnt numerous skills through this apprenticeship and have become a lot more confident with talking to others. I am half way through my Level 3 BTEC course which I believe is going well. I have attended an internal training session about airport safety which I used in practice when I undertook a site visit to Heathrow Airport.

I really enjoy the programme and like the environment that I work in. It has exceeded my expectations and I am happy with the programme.

When I have done a good job or have met the deadlines set by the engineer I am praised. We are also rewarded with social events where we have the opportunity to interact with the client.

I received a good amount of training but have had some problems with the college. This is not to do with the company, but to do with the college. The programme is well organised and we receive support from our colleagues if we have a difficult assignment or deadline.

We do not receive a lot of support from the college, if I have a problem I will only approach one or two of the tutors as I do not feel comfortable approaching the others. If I approach the others I know that I will not get a certain/definite answer.

Currently I do not have a mentor, but if I have any problems, I will talk to some of the other apprentices who are further through the programme, as they have been through the process, they normally know what to do and how to help.

I believe that there should be more opportunities for the salary to increase more as our knowledge and experience is furthered. At the moment I am coping ok with the costs that I occur. However, at the moment I am spending £150 on just commuting to work per month. There is no way that I would be able to move out of living in my parents house if the salary does not increase by much.

There are often social events arranged by my colleagues which I often attend as I think it is a good idea.

Yes

The opportunities that ATKINS has given me I don't think I would be able to get anywhere else. I would much rather get experience of working while learning than get my degree and not have any experience as I believe I would struggle to get a job at the end of it. I think it offers a good programme for people looking for an alternative to University.

If you are unsure whether you want to go to University, apply for an Atkins Apprenticeship. It is the perfect way to earn and learn. If ever invited social events, attend them as it broadens your range of contacts.