Procurement Apprentice Review
at Balfour Beatty
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Procurement
Birmingham
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4.3 /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!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.4/5
-
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
As a Procurement Apprentice within the Buying team, my role involves supporting procurement activity across live construction projects. On a day-to-day basis, I assist with sourcing and tendering by issuing RFQs, communicating with suppliers, confirming participation, and managing responses. I support the preparation and checking of procurement documentation, help raise requisitions and approvals, and ensure processes are followed compliantly. I work closely with project teams and the wider procurement function to understand requirements, maintain accurate records, and support supplier selection. Alongside this, I attend procurement and safety meetings and use my day-to-day tasks to build evidence towards my CIPS apprenticeship.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
As a Procurement Apprentice within the Buying team, I support procurement activity across live construction projects and really enjoy the variety the role offers. On a day-to-day basis, I assist with sourcing and tendering by issuing RFQs, communicating with suppliers, confirming participation, and managing responses. I support the preparation and checking of procurement documentation, help raise requisitions and approvals, and ensure procurement processes are followed correctly. I enjoy working closely with both suppliers and internal project teams, as it allows me to build confidence, develop my communication skills, and better understand how procurement supports project delivery. I also attend procurement and safety meetings and use my daily tasks to build practical experience and evidence towards my CIPS apprenticeship.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt a lot of new skills physically and mentally.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
I really enjoy my role as a Procurement Apprentice and find the work engaging and varied, particularly the exposure to live projects and supplier interaction. The programme itself is well structured at times, which provides clarity and consistency in learning and expectations. However, I have also noticed that some areas of the business receive more focus and opportunities than others, meaning certain functions can feel overlooked. While this can be challenging, it has helped me become more proactive in seeking out learning opportunities and making the most of the experience available to me. Overall, the programme has been valuable in developing my skills and understanding of procurement, while also giving me insight into how different parts of the business operate.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I feel well supported by my employer and appreciate the guidance and encouragement I receive within my role, which has helped me develop both personally and professionally. However, throughout the programme I have experienced a lot of change, having worked under three different line managers. While this has at times been challenging, it has required me to adapt quickly, remain flexible, and take ownership of my own development. Adapting to different management styles and expectations has strengthened my resilience, improved my communication skills, and increased my confidence in working independently. Overall, the support provided alongside these changes has played a key role in my growth and progression within the apprenticeship.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. I have regular calls with my CIPS coach a couple of times each month, which gives me the opportunity to discuss progress, ask questions, and get guidance where needed. My coach also has a shared calendar that I can access, allowing me to book additional time whenever he is available if I need extra support. He is very consistent in opening and responding to emails, which makes it easy to get help promptly and feel supported throughout the qualification.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel that my qualification through my training provider supports me well in performing my role more effectively. The content I learn links closely to the work I carry out day to day, helping me better understand procurement processes, terminology, and best practice. This has improved my confidence when supporting sourcing activities, communicating with suppliers, and following procurement procedures correctly. Being able to apply what I learn directly to my role makes the qualification feel relevant and practical, and it has helped me develop both my technical knowledge and my overall approach to my work within procurement.
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 are networking events included in the Early Careers program. For example Brathay Residential.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend because of the range of opportunities the business offers. The organization provides exposure to real projects, supports development through structured program such as apprenticeships, and encourages learning through hands-on experience. There are opportunities to work with different teams, build professional skills, and gain valuable industry knowledge, which helps support both personal and career development. Overall, Balfour Beatty offers a supportive environment where individuals are given the chance to grow and progress within a large, well-established business.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?
When applying to Balfour Beatty, it’s important to research the business and understand the role you’re applying for, while also showing genuine interest and enthusiasm. Highlight transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and organization, even if they come from education or part-time work. Balfour Beatty values a willingness to learn and develop, so being open, honest, and proactive throughout the application process can really help you stand out.
