Civil Engineer Review
at Paul Basham Associates
Degree Apprenticeship
Civil Engineering
Fareham
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
3.6 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.2/5
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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:
4/5
I started in September 2019 where I was primarily a technician. As i have progressed to now, my role developed to include client management, project management, design work (drainage, highways, etc).
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I have been well supported throughout my career. Initially comeplting a level 3 apprenticeship, and now 1 month way from completing my degree apprenticeship. The work is always interesting, and I am always allowed to improve my experience as I want. I have yearly appraisals in which targets are set for me and in which I can also set my own targets.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt everything I know from PBA and have a plethora of knowledge and experience across a significant number of different projects , all over the UK and at all stages of construction.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
My programme did not have much structure to start - I was not provided with much of an idea as to my progression path. However, I did have yearly appraisals and very frequent catchups with my line manager and mentor so I never felt forgotten. The company has since learned from this and have set a very clear apprenticeship programme for new apprentices.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I get a lot of support from my company. They have allowed me to book additional study leave when I needed the extra time to prepare for exams or coursework. I have a dedicated workplace mentor that supports me with Uni. I always feel listened to and respected wehn I ask for additional support in the workplace.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Portsmouth university have been okay. I have dediciated workplace tutor from Portsmouth Uni who is there if I need anything, and we also have quarterly catchups. It can be said that sometimes Degree Apprentices are treated as full time students, even though both have very different needs
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
In my specific role, I have only ever applied one formula that i learnt from uni. Everything else has not been transferable to the work I do, although it does help provide context to other disciplines within the construction industry. My final year has been the most useful, particularly professional development 3 which will be a big boost towards achieving my IENG qualification with the ICE
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Extra-curricular is quite scarce at my workplace. During the summer 3/4 of us play some golf twice a month or so. There are sometimes internal football matches set up. Social activities are rare, but the company is looking to set up one at least once a quarter
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Paul Basham Associates to a friend?
Yes
Why?
PBA is a well run company, with a lot of benefits. My favourite include the flexible working hours and opprotunity to work remotely. You get all the support you need with traning and qualifications, and the apprenticeship.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Paul Basham Associates?
Be well prepared should you win an interview. Look into what's going on in your area, show what experience you may already have.
