Experience
How would you describe your experience at the company since you started?
I would describe my experience at the company as very positive and rewarding. Since starting, I have been given the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable hands-on experience within the quantity surveying role. The team has been very supportive, which has made it easier to ask questions, develop new skills, and build confidence in my work. Also, I run my own real projects, which has helped me better understand how the knowledge from my studies applies in a practical setting. Overall, my time at the company has been a great learning experience, helping me develop both professionally and personally while building a strong foundation for my career in quantity surveying.
How have you grown personally and professionally during your apprenticeship?
During my apprenticeship, I have grown both personally and professionally in several ways. Professionally, I have developed a strong understanding of the quantity surveying role, including cost management, project processes, and working with different members of the project team. I have also improved my technical knowledge and become more confident in carrying out tasks and contributing to projects. Personally, the apprenticeship has helped me build confidence, responsibility, and better communication skills. Working in a professional environment has taught me how to manage my time effectively, especially when balancing work responsibilities with my studies. Overall, the experience has helped me become more independent, organised, and confident in my abilities, while continuing to develop the skills needed to progress in my career as a Quantity Surveyor.
How do you balance hands-on work with classroom learning, and how has that supported your development?
I balance hands-on work with classroom learning by applying the knowledge I gain from my studies directly to the tasks and projects I work on day to day. The classroom learning helps me understand the theory behind quantity surveying, such as cost management, contracts, and construction processes, while the practical work allows me to see how these concepts are used in real projects. This balance has supported my development by helping me build both academic knowledge and practical experience at the same time. When I encounter something new at work, the learning from my course often helps me understand it better, and similarly, the real-life experience I gain in the workplace reinforces what I learn in the classroom. Overall, combining both aspects of the apprenticeship has helped me develop a stronger understanding of the role and has allowed me to build confidence in applying my skills in a professional environment.
Support & Development
Are there any mentors / team members who have supported you along the way? How have they supported you?
Louis Bicknell (Purchase Ledger Manager) has been a great support since I started. He has guided me through any accounting issues I’ve encountered and has provided direction and training, particularly when we transitioned to a new accounting system. Additionally, he assisted me with the Ascension cost centre, helping to identify and correct discrepancies in the figures at the time. Lou is the type of team member you can call on anytime, and he will help no matter what. He has been incredibly helpful in developing my knowledge and understanding, always making me feel that no question is a silly one. Without his guidance, my work and the smooth running of my tasks would not be as effective as they are today. His mentorship has been invaluable to my professional growth, helping me develop both my technical skills and confidence in handling complex tasks.
What skills are you most excited to continue developing during your apprenticeship?
During my Axis CLC apprenticeship, I am most excited to continue developing both my technical and professional skills as a Quantity Surveyor. I am looking forward to improving my understanding of cost estimation, budgeting, and contract management, as these are key aspects of the role. I am also keen to develop my analytical and problem-solving skills, as quantity surveying often involves reviewing project costs, identifying potential risks, and finding cost-effective solutions. Alongside this, strengthening my communication and teamwork skills is important, as the role requires regular collaboration with project managers, contractors, and other members of the project team.
Do you feel there is a clear path for progression within the company? If so, what does that look like for you?
Yes, I do feel there is a clear path for progression within the company. There are always opportunities arising at Axis CLC, whether in our office or other locations. The most straightforward path for me would be to progress to a fully-fledged Quantity Surveyor and eventually move up to a Senior Quantity Surveyor role.
Culture & Benefits
How would you describe the company culture in three words?
Supportive, professional, collaborative.
What makes you proud to work here?
What makes me proud to work here is being part of an organisation that values growth, teamwork, and the development of its employees. The supportive environment allows individuals to learn new skills, contribute meaningfully to the team, and continuously improve in their roles. I am also proud to be part of a workplace that invests in apprentices and provides opportunities for people to build their careers. Knowing that the organisation is committed to training, mentoring, and helping individuals reach their potential makes it a rewarding place to work. Additionally, the sense of collaboration and shared goals within the team creates a positive working culture, where everyone works together to achieve high standards and deliver the best possible results.
What do you think the biggest benefit of being an apprentice is with us?
One of the biggest benefits of being an apprentice with your organisation is the opportunity to gain real, hands-on experience while learning from experienced professionals. This allows apprentices to develop practical skills in a real working environment, which can be far more valuable than learning through theory alone.
Another key benefit is the chance to earn while you learn. Apprentices are able to build their career, gain recognised qualifications, and develop industry knowledge at the same time. This combination helps build confidence and prepares individuals for long-term career progression. Additionally, being part of a professional team provides valuable networking opportunities and mentorship. Learning directly from colleagues and supervisors helps apprentices understand industry standards, workplace expectations, and best practices, which can be extremely beneficial for their future career development.
Looking Ahead
What are your career aspirations, and how is the company helping you work towards them?
My career aspiration is to grow into a leadership role where I can drive meaningful impact and contribute to the company’s long-term success. I’m motivated to continually develop my skills, take on challenging projects, and expand my expertise so that I can take on more responsibility over time. I see this company as a place that supports growth through mentorship and opportunities to work on diverse, high-impact initiatives, which will help me progress toward my goal of reaching the top.
What advice would you give someone considering an apprenticeship with us?
If you are considering an Axis CLC apprenticeship with us, my advice would be to approach the opportunity with a strong willingness to learn and a positive attitude. An apprenticeship is a valuable way to gain practical, hands-on experience while developing important skills within a professional environment. Be proactive in asking questions, seeking feedback, and taking advantage of every learning opportunity available. Showing initiative, reliability, and a commitment to improving your skills will help you get the most out of the experience. It is also important to stay organised and manage your time effectively, especially when balancing workplace responsibilities with any training or study requirements. Building good relationships with colleagues and mentors can also be extremely beneficial, as they can provide guidance, support, and insight into the industry. Overall, if you remain motivated, open to learning, and dedicated to your development, an apprenticeship can be an excellent pathway for building both your confidence and your long-term career.
