Hannah, Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice

I work in the Piling Division of my company and am rather fortunate in the experience that it provides me, specifically through the many different roles, from site engineer, to estimating and design. I have spent the last 8 months as a site engineer working on the ground engineering of a new shopping centre in Central London. My work at Elephant and Castle consisted of mainly data logging and analysis, measurements and calculations of site equipment, and management of piling work on site. Previously, I worked as an estimator, where I would analyse documents provided by our clients before using this information to help in pricing up an initial estimate of the works to be undertaken.

Often, I apply what I learn in my ‘mechanics and materials’ modules to my work; whether it be through calculations, which I take out to ensure precision, or when looking at the specifics of materials we use. My ‘professional studies’ module has also greatly improved my ability to write and layout formal documents or drawings, which we provide to clients.

What would you say were the benefits of doing an apprenticeship in comparison to returning to full-time education?

Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to not only continue academic development but to also apply this knowledge and experience in a workplace - this pathway, I believe, provides the best route into the industry. During exam times and deadlines, there is often the additional stress of the company workload; however, the support network provided by my company (Expanded Piling as part of Laing O’Rourke) has meant that it is never unmanageable – with the company being very understanding of additional expectations.

Furthermore, being around highly trained professionals and having the opportunity to learn from them, has helped me better understand my university modules. There are also many other incentives that come with doing an apprenticeship, such as; no university debt, a competitive income, corporate benefits (which in my case includes private healthcare), a high level of training from an early stage of my career, and professional accreditation alongside your degree.

Would you recommend Exeter to other students thinking of taking part in Degree Apprenticeships?

I would strongly recommend Exeter as a place to study a Degree Apprenticeship. In my experience, the university has provided me with full support of my course with lecturers being happy to further explain course content outside of timetabled slots. My academic mentor maintains frequent communication with both myself and my workplace mentor to ensure I am happy with my university assignments and that I am up to date with all documents for my assessments. Furthermore, the university always ensure that I am gaining the experience needed to continue my professional development through my workplace.

I have also found that the block release programme which I am on with Exeter means I am fully able to focus on my studies as well as experiencing the university lifestyle. Whilst studying, I have had the opportunity to join societies such as the film society, as well as use the facilities on campus; from the gym to the many study spaces.