Construction Apprentice Review

On a day to day basis, I am on site overseeing all the works that are being completed. This involves communicating with both the site team and sub-contractors to keep track of all works and stay on target. This also involves having toolbox talks and liaising with operatives about health and safety on-site to make sure it is at a high level, to keep everyone safe.

During my time at BAM, I have progressed in many ways, such as gaining a greater knowledge of different activities that happen on-site as well as how a construction site is run. However I have also picked up skills that can be used outside of the workplace, for example due to the daily communicating with sub-contractors on-site, this has improved my communication skills.

So far I have thoroughly enjoyed working for BAM and the different opportunities that it has given me. I have always felt welcomed by my fellow colleagues either on site or in the office and they are always happy to help out to progress your career. I have also enjoyed working within central London, seeing the city in a different way and working next to some iconic buildings.

The BAM apprenticeship programme is a very structured and well-run programme, it is always made clear where and who I'll be working with. BAM try to put there apprentices in placements that they know will benefit them the most, for example I have worked both on-site during the construction phase as well as the pre-construction phase. This has allowed me to gain experience and knowledge in a range of different tasks.

Whilst working at BAM you will have loads of support from your line manager, who will constantly keep you busy and learning on the job whilst also enjoying it. Along with this then the BAM team working with you are always happy to help out and assist with any challenging tasks. There is regular calls and reviews with the senior management to see how you are getting on and the progress that is being made.

When on a BAM construction apprenticeship programme, you will live and study at Leeds College of Building, which is come of the best construction colleges in the country. Whilst there all the tutors were eager for us to get the best grades possible and will support us to achieve these. They always had time for a quick call to go through the work if there was ever a problem.

After my time at college, I felt very confident coming back on to site with much broader knowledge of all the works that were taking place. The qualification taught me the key works that take place on-site and the reason for them, this meant I could see these taking place and have better understanding. I am looking forward to going back this year to further my knowledge as well as take what I have learnt from my time on-site.

Unfortunately I joined BAM during the pandemic, therefore with lockdowns I have not been able to attend many social activities. However it is clear from the pictures around the office and what I have been told from colleagues, there are a range of extra-curricular activities that take place through the year. One activity I have been involved in is 'enhancing lives', I had to team up with other apprentices to plan an event which gives back to the community.

Yes

I have felt welcomed here since my first day, and have been supported by my colleagues to allow me to keep developing. BAM have provided me with the knowledge and experience to help me along the way to become a successful construction manager. Unlike with going to university, BAM has allowed me to gain on-site experience and been tasked with real life situations that have massively helped my development.

Make sure you give the best account of yourself when applying as well as on the assessment day. Let them know what qualities you have and why you would be the best fit for the company. Lastly be open and easily approachable to both the other candidates and the BAM staff.