Apprentice surveyor Review

I assist with large construction projects including measurements for cost plans and helping produce tender and contract documents. I also manage a range of small scale projects £500K - £10M with limited supervision from feasibility stage until project completion. This involves cost estimating, cost planning, procurement strategies, tendering and negotiating, undertaking monthly valuations, agreeing variations, monthly financial reports and agreeing final accounts.

I have developed a range of existing skills such as communication, negotiation and team working. I have also learnt new skills such as measurement, cost estimating, cost planning, understanding of construction technologies including the various steps of construction a new build and the different requirement for a fit out project.

The programme offers plenty of ways to learn new things through in house seminars at work while developing our skills in order to prepare us for our end point assessment. University teaches me new skills and my day to day job provides me with the opportunity to put these skills into practice.

The programme is well structured. In my first year I was able to assist on a range of projects which gave me the opportunity to develop my understanding of the day to day role of a QS. As my skills have developed I am now given the responsibility to manage projects with limited supervision as I continue to progress in my career.

My employer offers a range of seminars to continually learn new things within the industry and develop our technical skills. We also have seminars to develop our technical skills to prepare us for our end point assessment. We also have quarterly reviews with line managers and the people & development team to ensure we are on the right track.

The university offers support in lectures and we also have the opportunity to discuss queries and issues etc with lecturers outside of class time. The university also arranges periodic meetings to check how we are progressing towards the end point assessment and to check we are on the right track.

University provides us with the core skills for my role. For example, contract law provides me with the technical knowledge which I can put into practice in my role as a QS. Additionally the first year of the course provides a good solid basis for the construction industry which is helpful as a young apprentice.

Gardiner and theobald have plenty of extra curricular activities such as sports teams including football , netball, dodgeball, softball and cricket. This allows a wide range of people across the firm to network at sporting events. There is also a budget to allow participants to enjoy refreshments after their respective activities. There are also plenty of other networking events arranged.

Yes

They are a great training provider and give opportunities for people to progress their careers at any stage they are currently at. They provide a range of networking activities and are very supportive of their employees. They also provide a range of personal benefits which generates a positive working vibe.

I would make sure that you show you have good social skills and participate in social events as Gardiner and theobald do appreciate this. I would show that you are keen in construction and keen to learn and develop new skills. This will show that you are willing to put the effort in to qualify as a chartered surveyor and develop your career