Apprentice Engineer Review
at VolkerWessels
Degree Apprenticeship
Civil Engineering
Preston
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.2 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I work as an engineer, working on construction sites setting out lines and level. Day-to-day I work out on site surveying, setting out, using drawing; quality, environment and safety paperwork and tasks; and using software packages such as AutoCAD.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I have really enjoyed my programme and challenges I have faced so far. I enjoy being able to work on site and build confidence, whilst also developing my academic capabilities.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Having coming straight from doing A-Levels I have learnt a lot and developed my skills. From basic skills like communication and presentation, to more technical attributes linking to the use of equipment, procedures on site and mathematical skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The course is well structured and organised, allowing me to work, complete my degree and professional qualification. I would say that it could be more organised from the uni perspective (LJMU) and their communications with us and our employer.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I have a strong support network around me, on site and on the apprenticeship front. They support my further development and encourage and communicate how I am doing with me.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
I have support through quarterly meetings with my uni tutor. However I would say this could be improved, due to limited knowledge of my job site and role at 18 months due to no physical visits. Due to being a commuter student I would say support could be better and communication improved, especially from lecturers.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I think it is slightly related to my role on site and I can apply the fundamentals where needed, to aid my role. However, other than the surveying and CAD modules, I would say the detail is often more relevant to designer roles.
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 attended socials, awards evenings and ICE events, to broaden my experiences and increase my platform.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend VolkerWessels to a friend?
Yes
Why?
They have been a supportive employer and look out for you, praising as well as suggesting growth and improvements.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to VolkerWessels?
I would highly recommend the role. I would say it is important to have enthusiasm for construction and the mathematical side of engineering. It may also be necessary to have had prior work experience, to ensure greater understanding of what is entailed working on site.
