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Apprentice Planner Review

at Balfour Beatty

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Project Management

Derby

Review Submitted: March 2026

Overall Rating

4.6 /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!

4.5/5 - Overview of Role
5/5 - Skills Development
4.6/5 - 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’ve really enjoyed the job so far. I spend a lot of time putting schedules together and keeping them up to date, making sure everything’s in the right order and the key dates are clear. I’ve also learnt loads of new skills along the way, which has been great, and it’s been good being part of a team; everyone chips in, shares updates, and helps each other out. A big part of what I do is looking through drawings and doing take-offs, then using that info to build the schedule and keep it accurate.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
The programme’s been really good for me so far. I’ve made some great new friends, and it’s been nice being around people who are all working towards the same thing. I’ve picked up loads of new skills and I’ve definitely pushed myself, but that’s what’s helped me grow the most. Overall, it’s been a really positive experience and I’m looking forward to seeing how much more I can learn as I keep going.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I’ve learnt loads of new skills that’s made me appreciate just how complicated a project can be. Seeing how all the different parts fit together has really helped me understand the bigger picture, and it’s made a massive difference to how I do my job day to day.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
I’ve also really liked the structure of the programme. The different modules keep things fresh and make it easy to build up knowledge as you go, and the mix of individual and group assignments works really well. Doing the group work in particular has helped everyone get to know each other properly, and it’s definitely helped create good bonds and friendships
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I’ve felt really well supported by the company throughout my time here. My line manager has been really helpful and approachable, which has made a big difference, especially when I’ve had questions or needed reassurance. The early careers programme has also been great, helping ease nerves at the start and making it easier to find people like me within the company. Having that support network has helped me settle in, make friends, and feel more confident in my role.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The support on the programme itself has been great as well. Having access to tutors whenever I need them has really helped, especially if I’m stuck or want to double-check I’m on the right track. I’ve also found it really useful that they support us with things outside of the actual programme too, like the webinars they run on stuff like mortgages and personal finance. On top of that, there are loads of websites and places to go to find information, which makes it much easier to research and get what I need for assignments.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
Being a planner, all the project controls bits have helped me understand how everything feeds into each other, from the early information and take-offs through to tracking progress and updates. It’s helped me think more clearly about logic, sequencing and dependencies, and I can see my planning skills improving because of it.
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
We get two days for volunteering, which is a great way to give something back. I’ve had the chance to speak to kids about apprenticeships, and I’ve also helped out at a dog shelter, which I really enjoyed. It’s nice knowing there are proper opportunities to support charities, the community, and get involved in loads of other things too.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The support you get through the Early Careers programme is a huge help, especially when you’re new and a bit nervous, and it really helps you settle in and feel part of the company. There’s also a really good range of job opportunities, including loads of apprenticeship routes, so you can find something that suits you and build your career properly. Everyone I’ve worked with has been genuinely kind and supportive too, and they’ve made a real effort to help integrate me into the business and make me feel welcome which is amazing when your just starting in the working world.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?
I’d say just be yourself and be honest in the interview, people really do appreciate that. It’s also completely normal to be nervous, especially if it’s your first proper interview or you’re new to the industry, so don’t let that put you off. I’d also recommend bringing a notepad because you’ll take in loads of new information, and it’s really helpful to write things down so you can look back on it later.
In This Review
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