Building the Future: Apprenticeships in Construction Consultancy

As it’s National Apprenticeship Week, we wanted to highlight our apprenticeship opportunities and share the journeys of two of our trainee quantity surveyors who are at different stages of their degree apprenticeship.

Jack Popely is in his third year of a five-year degree apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying at Leeds Beckett University.  He works full time and attends university one day per week.

Mason Christie is in his first year of his Quantity Surveying degree apprenticeship, having started last September.  Undertaking his degree at Leeds Trinity University he works full time alongside a mix of online and in person study.

Why did you choose a degree apprenticeship over university?

Jack: I wasn’t keen on studying full time and wasn’t sure what I would have studied. The combination of working and learning was much more appealing, and I knew it would give me a head start in my career.

Mason: During college, I realised I benefited more from practical and visual learning. Apprenticeships focus on real-world experience, which suited my learning style far better than full-time education.

What does your apprenticeship involve?

Jack: I’m currently in my third year of a five-year degree apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying at Leeds Beckett University. I work on a variety of projects at RPP and even lead some, acting as the main contact from the business.

Mason: My course is based at Leeds Trinity University and involves two block release days every two months at university, with online lectures in between. The rest of the time, I’m gaining hands-on experience in the workplace.

Is the apprenticeship what you expected?

Jack: It’s different from what I expected – in a good way! I never thought I’d be leading projects so early in my career, but the experience has been invaluable.

Mason: It’s definitely challenging balancing work and study, but my colleagues are really supportive. Having dedicated study release time from work helps a lot.

What kind of projects have you worked on?

Jack: I’ve worked across various sectors, from infrastructure to residential and industrial projects. One of my highlights was working on a nationwide roll-out of electric vehicle chargers, which took me all over the country.

Mason: I’ve already been exposed to a range of projects and responsibilities, my current projects include improvements to an SEN school and a newbuild industrial unit.

How has the apprenticeship helped your career development?

Jack: Networking is a huge part of it. Through formal and informal events, I’ve built valuable connections that will benefit my career long-term.

Mason: It’s giving me practical experience, allowing me to apply my learning in real scenarios. I’ve also developed a strong professional network. I also found completing my BTEC Extended Diploma in Construction proved beneficial for me, as it laid the foundation for my apprenticeship.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

Jack: Definitely. By the time you graduate, you already have years of experience, which gives you a real advantage in the job market!

Mason:  Absolutely. You get a salary, a degree, and hands-on experience – all without the burden of student debt!

National Apprenticeship Week is all about celebrating success stories like Jack and Mason’s. If you’re considering your next steps, an apprenticeship might be the perfect way to build your future! To find out more about our apprenticeships, you can visit our careers pages.