Civil Engineer Review

As a civil engineer I will operate total stations in order to set out points for subcontractors, I sign off permits and write work package plans and task briefings. I observe work that's being done and make sure its being done on time and with safety measures in place.

I've learnt many skills, these include social skills which are needed for interaction with operatives onsite. I have become much better at communicating ideas and I have become more confident and knowledgeable about the construction industry. I know why way around equipment which is a skill I've learnt since being onsite.

The programme involved a study block In Leeds which gave me some life experience away from home. The independence enabled me to mature in preparation for being on site and working on a day to day basis. I have really enjoyed this aspect of the programme as it has prepared me very well for the rest of my life.

The programme is very well structured but there are some problems in terms of organisation. The timetables for when we are onsite and when we go back to college isn't planned very far in advance and as a result we are unsure when we are able to take holiday leave.

The support we receive is excellent! We are provided with a great pension scheme as well as private medical health care for significantly less. Not only this but whilst studying in Leeds we were provided with free travel home each weekend and now that I'm on site, my travel expenses to work and back are fully reimbursed.

We are left in the hands of Leeds college of building and they provide all the support needed to gain our qualifications. They also have a great student union which enables us to get involved with sports and social activities with vouchers and other great prizes to be won. The lecturers are aware of our intense programme and therefore additional support is provided when needed.

The level 3 Diploma that I just completed wasn't the most relevant as it was a general diploma in construction rather than engineering. When I start studying towards my HND I expect it to be extremely beneficial to when I go onsite and start applying what I learnt. I find the best way to improve at my role is through being onsite rather than studying in a college.

Unfortunately the site hours are very long which doesn't leave much time or energy for sport. There are some networking events that happen every year but as I haven't been with the company very long I haven't been to one yet. There are a few rowing machines on my site if I would like to get some exercise in my lunch time.

Yes

Its a brilliant apprenticeship with great access into the industry. The qualifications you achieve through the scheme keeps you on the same level as university graduates but with so much experience and without the debt. As a company, Bam are very stable with safety at the centre of the work they do.

If you want an apprenticeship in the construction industry then BAM is perfect for you. They have sites all over the country with some abroad for once you've made it through the apprenticeship programme. It gives a great range of experiences and a sustainable career for the future due to the innovative nature of construction.