Commercial Trainee Review

Item: Commercial Trainee at Kier Group
Rating: 4.8
Author: Anonymous

at Kier Group

Degree Apprenticeship

Surveying

Cardiff / Caerdydd

Review Submitted: March 2026

Overall Rating

4.8 /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

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

Being a trainee Quantity Surveyor involves learning the key aspects of cost management, budgeting, and financial planning for construction projects. Additionally I typically assist senior surveyors by preparing cost estimates, measuring quantities of materials, and conducting site visits to assess progress.
My role blends technical knowledge with financial skills and I spend valuable time gaining practical experience on site and in the office while working towards professional qualifications.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

I value my degree programme with Kier as a Quantity Surveyor because it provides a strong professional foundation built on real industry exposure and structured learning. The programme allows me to apply academic knowledge directly to live projects, developing my technical understanding of cost management, procurement, and commercial processes. Working alongside experienced colleagues has accelerated my professional growth, giving me the confidence to take ownership of tasks while continually learning from industry best practice. The support and guidance offered by Kier, combined with clear opportunities for progression, make the programme both engaging and rewarding. Overall, it has strengthened my commitment to building a long‑term career within the commercial and construction sector.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

I’ve developed a wide range of new skills that have strengthened both my technical ability and professional confidence. I’ve gained hands‑on experience in cost estimation, measurement, take‑offs, and financial reporting, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to budgeting and commercial control on live projects. Working with contracts has improved my understanding of NEC/JCT processes and helped me develop strong procurement and contract‑administration skills. Alongside this, I’ve improved my communication, problem‑solving, and negotiation skills, while becoming more confident using digital tools such as Excel, take‑off software, and internal commercial systems.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

The programme is extremely well‑organised and structured, which makes balancing work and study both manageable and rewarding. Each stage of the programme is clearly planned, giving me a strong sense of direction and confidence in my development. Support is always available whenever I need it, whether from mentors, managers, or the wider team. Everyone involved genuinely looks out for my best interests, continuously encouraging my growth and ensuring I have the resources and opportunities to succeed. This level of guidance and care makes the programme feel both professional and genuinely supportive.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

Kier continually check in with their apprentices, whether its a general conversation about how their doing or helping with university work. I feel supported and know I can always ask for a hand if needed.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

4/5

University Lecturers contact us through Blackboard, they help with any queries regarding assessments and always seem more than happy to help us understand.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

4/5

I feel that my qualification through my training provider supports me in performing better in my role. The learning is directly relevant to the work I do day‑to‑day, which helps me understand the reasoning behind processes, commercial decisions, and industry standards. The combination of academic knowledge and practical application allows me to approach tasks with more confidence and a deeper level of understanding.

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

There is a massive range of activities, Kier hold sport activities whether its lunch time walks, moving through may, additionally they have held charity quizzes and the like. There are multiple networking events throughout the construction industry which Kier always encourage you to join in them.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Kier Group to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I would recommend Kier Group to anyone considering a degree apprenticeship because the organisation provides an great balance of structured learning, real industry experience, and genuine support. Kier creates an environment where apprentices feel valued and trusted from the start, with clear development pathways and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. The teams are welcoming and always willing to guide you, making it easy to ask questions and build confidence. They have a strong commitment to your long‑term success, they invest time, training, and resources to ensure you progress at a pace that suits you and always act with your best interests in mind. It’s a great place to start a career with strong foundations, real responsibility, and continuous support.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Kier Group?

It’s important to show genuine enthusiasm for the industry and a willingness to learn. Highlight any practical experience, problem‑solving skills, or teamwork you’ve developed, even if it’s outside construction.
Research Kier’s values and recent projects to show you understand the company. Be yourself, Kier looks for potential, attitude, and commitment just as much as experience. Being prepared, confident, and honest about why you want the role will help you stand out.

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