Apprentice cost consultant Review
at Arcadis
Degree Apprenticeship
Surveying
Birmingham
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
5 /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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
-
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
As an apprentice cost consultant, I support project teams by managing budgets, evaluating costs, and ensuring value for money in construction projects. Day-to-day tasks include cost estimating, preparing tender documents, analysing contractor proposals, and monitoring expenses. I develop technical knowledge, collaborate with stakeholders, and gain hands-on experience in quantity surveying practices.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I greatly enjoy my apprenticeship programme as it provides a perfect balance of practical experience and learning opportunities. I find satisfaction in contributing to real-world projects, gaining valuable industry insights, and developing technical skills like cost estimating and contract management. The variety of tasks and collaboration with professionals keeps the work engaging, while the structured learning supports my career growth.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
During my apprenticeship, I have developed skills in estimating and contract management. I’ve learned how to accurately assess project costs by analysing drawings, specifications, and market rates, ensuring realistic budgets. Additionally, I’ve gained knowledge of contract management, including preparing tender documents, understanding different contract types, and managing contractual obligations. These skills have enhanced my attention to detail, analytical abilities, and understanding of industry practices, helping me contribute effectively to project delivery.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My apprenticeship programme is well-structured, with a clear balance between work and study. I spend four days a week gaining hands-on experience in the workplace, working on tasks like cost estimating, contract management, and project analysis. One day is dedicated to university, where I focus on theoretical learning and developing industry knowledge. This structure allows me to apply academic concepts directly to practical scenarios, ensuring a comprehensive and effective learning experience.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive loads of support from my line manager, mentor, and colleagues on my commission, who are always committed to my development. They provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure I gain relevant experience across projects. The Arcadis culture is incredibly supportive, with everyone willing to help and share knowledge. This collaborative environment makes it easy to learn, grow, and feel confident in my role as an apprentice cost consultant.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive strong support from my training provider when working towards my qualifications. The university offers guidance through lectures, tutorials, and access to resources, ensuring I understand the theoretical aspects of cost consultancy. Additionally, I get to watch webinars focused on preparing for my RICS accreditation, which provide valuable insights into industry standards and expectations. This combination of academic and professional development support helps me progress confidently toward my qualifications.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification through the training provider greatly enhances my performance in my role. The academic knowledge gained from university, such as cost estimating, contract management, and industry standards, complements the practical experience I receive at work. Learning theoretical frameworks and best practices helps me approach tasks more confidently and efficiently, bridging the gap between education and real-world application in cost consultancy.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are so many extra-curricular activities to get involved in at work. Examples include joining initiatives like Sustainability Champions and Shadow Leadership Teams, which provide opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects and develop leadership skills. Team socials are a great way to bond with colleagues, while sports activities like golf clubs and football teams offer fun ways to stay active. The opportunities are endless, catering to both professional growth and personal interests.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Arcadis to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Arcadis
I would recommend Arcadis to a friend because of its supportive culture, excellent development opportunities, and diverse projects. The company fosters learning, collaboration, and career growth, while offering extra-curricular activities and a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
I would recommend Arcadis to a friend because of its supportive culture, excellent development opportunities, and diverse projects. The company fosters learning, collaboration, and career growth, while offering extra-curricular activities and a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Arcadis?
Research the Company: Understand Arcadis' values, sustainability goals, and the services they offer to show alignment with their mission.
Tailor Your Application: Highlight your skills, experiences, and passion for the role, ensuring they're relevant to the job and company.
Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your experiences, showcase problem-solving skills, and ask thoughtful questions about the role.
Highlight Teamwork: Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively, as Arcadis values a supportive and inclusive culture.
Be Yourself: Show your personality and eagerness to contribute to the company's success.
Tailor Your Application: Highlight your skills, experiences, and passion for the role, ensuring they're relevant to the job and company.
Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your experiences, showcase problem-solving skills, and ask thoughtful questions about the role.
Highlight Teamwork: Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively, as Arcadis values a supportive and inclusive culture.
Be Yourself: Show your personality and eagerness to contribute to the company's success.
