Apprentice Building Surveyor Review
at Savills
Degree Apprenticeship
Surveying
Newcastle upon Tyne
Review Submitted: April 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!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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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
No day is the same in my role as an Apprentice Building Surveyor. I support and manage projects both independently and as part of wider teams.
My responsibilities include assisting with and carrying out measured surveys, supporting dilapidations inspections, and contributing to technical due diligence reports and Planned Preventative Maintenance schedules. I also use AutoCAD to produce and amend drawings and technical information.
In addition, I assist with the preparation of project specifications, compile tender documentation and support the tender process, including reviewing tender returns and assisting with evaluations alongside senior surveyors.
I regularly communicate with clients and contractors and work closely with other departments within Savills.
I assist with the preparation and completion of RCA’s for a range of large clients, including supporting the management of extensive property portfolios across the North East.
My responsibilities include assisting with and carrying out measured surveys, supporting dilapidations inspections, and contributing to technical due diligence reports and Planned Preventative Maintenance schedules. I also use AutoCAD to produce and amend drawings and technical information.
In addition, I assist with the preparation of project specifications, compile tender documentation and support the tender process, including reviewing tender returns and assisting with evaluations alongside senior surveyors.
I regularly communicate with clients and contractors and work closely with other departments within Savills.
I assist with the preparation and completion of RCA’s for a range of large clients, including supporting the management of extensive property portfolios across the North East.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my programme to a large extent. I particularly like the variety within my role, as no two days are the same. The balance between office‑based work and regularly getting out on site keeps the role engaging.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt new technical skills and built on existing ones, particularly through site work, report writing, AutoCAD use and involvement in tender processes. I have also developed stronger communication and organisational skills through regular client, contractor and team interaction.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is generally well organised and supported by good communication, particularly from the Savills Early Careers Apprenticeship Officer, who has been responsive and helpful in answering any queries.
As I am now at the stage of preparing to sit my APC, the structure becomes more self‑directed. I am given the flexibility and freedom to organise my time and development in a way that suits my progress, while still having support available when needed.
As I am now at the stage of preparing to sit my APC, the structure becomes more self‑directed. I am given the flexibility and freedom to organise my time and development in a way that suits my progress, while still having support available when needed.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive good support from my employer. I feel able to ask questions within my team and am supported by both colleagues and those responsible for overseeing apprentices.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I receive good support while working towards my qualifications, particularly now that I am preparing for my APC. My line manager actively supports my development by identifying suitable projects that help me gain experience and meet APC competency requirements.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification has supported my role significantly. Having completed the academic element of the apprenticeship and achieved a First Class degree, I have been able to directly apply what I learned to my day‑to‑day work, including through a work‑based dissertation project. Progressing to the APC is now essential for demonstrating competence and continuing to develop and progress in my role.
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 a variety of extra‑curricular activities available. These include professional networking events, social activities within the Newcastle office such as a weekly tea morning where teams take turns baking, and wellbeing initiatives like tree planting with the forestry team and organised mental health walks. There are also sports teams, including rugby and football, available for those who wish to take part.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Savills to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Savills because it’s been a great place to gain practical experience while completing my degree. The Newcastle office has a strong, social team culture, and although it’s smaller than other offices, it feels like one collaborative team.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Savills?
would advise anyone applying to Savills to be eager to learn and willing to continually develop their knowledge. Being approachable and comfortable interacting with people is important, as collaboration is a big part of the role. Above all, be yourself, that’s the best way to see whether Savills is the right fit for you and to allow the people you work with to get the best out of you.
