Apprentice civil engineer Review

by Arcadis

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.2/10

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

I am a civil engineering apprentice and in my day to day role this started out with performing BIM related tasks such as modelling and creating drawings so that I could get an understanding of the civil assets we deal with. I now design the civil assets.

9/10

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

Yes I am constantly learning new skills. Since I started I have developed a good level of BIM competency and I am now constantly learning how to design assets. The design process has involved me learning how to perform civil engineering calculations including load bearing.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I am very happy at Arcadis. I am treated fairly and as expected as an apprentice. I enjoy my university course especially since it is block release instead of day release. This has given me a chance to build bonds with my classmates and get information about the industry from friends.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Since I was on the first intake of apprentices at Arcadis for a few years, there was a couple of things that needed adjusting at the start but I believe these have all been amended now. My university has had a restructure to the course which has significantly improved it however it would be nicer if we got the assignment briefs on time as they are often delayed.

8/10

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

I receive all the necessary support from my employer and there is nothing lacking.

10/10

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

It wasn't the best at the start but since the course restructure it has been good. I now understand what I need to do to complete the apprenticeship, such as write stare reports and track my KSBs. I have quarterly reviews with my work based coach and line manager.

7/10

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

It is the probably the most relevant degree I could have done for the industry. It is ok when the lecturer is somebody working currently in the industry however if they left the industry a long time ago to teach, the slides are sometimes outdated and give information that is no longer relevant to the current standards.

6/10

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.)

Yes, Arcadis always has CPD events that we can attend, along with chartership help. There are a couple of sports events organised and I have played the odd game of football after work. We do have a few social events per year as well such as a Christmas party.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend Arcadis to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a good company to work for. Everybody is friendly and helping especially towards apprentices. It is a pretty stable company who seem to have good aims.

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

Be open minded and willing to improve. An interest in sustainability would also be a good value to have.