Apprentice Cost Consultant Review
at Arcadis
Degree Apprenticeship
Construction
Warrington, Cheshire
Review Submitted: February 2023
Overall Rating
2.7 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
2.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
2/5
My role largely revolves around administering the construction contract and supporting the project team. As an apprentice, I was given support on how to complete these tasks before taking them on myself.
I've also grown to regularly converse with the contractors and clients having picked up more experience over the years.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I have enjoyed my apprenticeship as it has given me a fast track into my career whilst also allowing me to complete my academic journey as well. However, I understand that the apprenticeship is a big sacrifice compared to the traditional university route as there is a far greater responsibility.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have. Upon first joining the apprenticeship, I had no practical experience in the field so I learned all of my skills at my company. I have massively expanded on my knowledge of construction contracts and how they function - particularly in NEC4 contracts and how to use them appropriately. I also understand project programmes and forecasts much better.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
I feel that the structure of my apprenticeship was initially very poor. Originally, I felt a bit lost and didn't know who to turn to for assistance. There was also a lack of connection as I was the only apprentice in my particular office but my university helped to provide some structure.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
1/5
The structure from my employer has been quite poor with a general lack of guidance from the outset. I have definitely had to rely on colleagues outside of the apprenticeship scheme far greater than those within it. I do feel a far better structure is required to onboard apprentices and am aware that my employer is working on this.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
My training provider has massively helped me in gaining my qualifications. Having been given a designated apprenticeship outcomes officer, I feel that I always have an appropriate point of contact should I have any queries regarding my training. All of the staff that I have spoken to have also been very helpful.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I think practical experience is far more important and that a similar level of skill and proficiency could be achieved without undergoing any further education. I feel that other accreditation in the industry can be of more use than a traditional level 5,6,7 qualification and would recommend this. I have still utilised my degree to an extent.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Due to Covid, there were not a lot of these during my original onboarding which did impact how socially connected I felt to the business. These have come back over the last 12-18 months but not on a frequent basis. I would prefer to have more of these in the future.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Arcadis to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think the company does put its employees first and I do feel very welcome here. I think the benefits that the company offers are also reasonable. However, I wish there was more organisation surrounding my onboarding process and still feel that there are development points around the apprenticeship and gaining the relevant experience.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Arcadis?
Ensure that you are in frequent contact with other apprentices and try to see these in person on a frequent basis (preferably weekly minimum). I would recommend asking as many questions as possible and taking a real interest in your role and the industry or project that you have been placed on.
