Apprentice Quantity Surveyor Review
at Balfour Beatty
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Surveying
Northampton, UK
Review Submitted: May 2024
Overall Rating
4.4 /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!
4/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.2/5
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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:
4/5
I manage my subcontract accounts, and report spending and any changes to the company in the monthly forecasting process. I issue site instructions for any variations, then collect quotes and implement them. I send out early warnings, both to the client and subcontractors. When the client instructs a change, I compile a CEQ to send to the client. I also progress final accounts for subcontractors who have completed their contract obligations, and require no further payments. I have involved myself in the procurement process, specifically receiving tenders, selecting a subcontractor, holding a pre-award meeting, drafting subcontract documentation, collecting relevant insurances and holding a pre-start meeting.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed working with a new group of people and I have found the job continually challenging and engaging. I am also very pleased with the level of engagement from Balfour Beatty. There is an excellent culture at this company, focussing on continual improvement and inclusivity.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have developed my communication skills, working as part of a commercial team. We are constantly exchanging important details in order to keep the whole team well informed on current events. My knowledge of construction processes has greatly improved. I had little experience on site before this apprenticeship, but site work has been an excellent way to quickly develop my understanding of a vast and varied array of construction methods.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The structure of the programme has been well managed and communicated to the apprentices. There has been several meetings to discuss progress and take in our opinions. Also, there have been additional site visits which have been highly engaging and informative. There will be an mend of year presentation which has also promoted the apprentices to interact with one another over the course the programme.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I have had lots of support and encouragement from many of my colleagues and especially my line managers. My performance development review was a real opportunity to discuss my goals and various means of achieving them.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Loughborough have called me multiple times to check on my personal wellbeing, as well as to monitor my progress in the industry. The university is keen to promote a positive image for itself and its students, and therefor provides a solid support system for us on our placement year.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My degree thus far has given me a solid foundation in contracting processes. I have been able to utilise what I have learned, yet build upon it productively. Certain elements, like different costing methods in contracting, seemed more complex at university - however, following my industrial experience I have been able to understand these processes clearly, as my work frequently requires I understand in depth the correct procedures/processes.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
I have participated in 5 a side football, which was good fun. We have had the occasional work night out also, to celebrate Christmas and the end of the project. There have been many opportunities to network with my fellow apprentices, as well as a wide range of team leaders and members across many facets of the business.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It has been an excellent experience, and I feel the company has devolved a culture which has allowed myself and many others to feel comfortable and valued on a day to day basis. The experience I have gained from this apprenticeship is sure to set me in great stead for the rest of my career, and Id recommend Balfour Beatty to anyone looking for a position in the construction industry.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?
I would encourage people applying to advertise the qualities that Balfour Beatty depends on. Primarily, from my experience here, I noticed that the company values a healthy attitude and a keen adaptability. Due to the nature of this industry and the tendency for unforeseen change, these attributes will provide team stability, and only serve to mitigate the effect of disappointment upon the teams morale. Volatile characters slow down progress with finger pointing and blame games, whereas a healthy/productive group mindset promotes adaptability to change and focusses valuable time and resources to nurturing a solution.
