At the age of 16, when we are still at school, we have to ask permission to leave the classroom. At the same time, we are expected to make decisions that are potentially going to affect the rest of our life, like which courses to go on. But at this stage we don’t have real knowledge of what is required to survive the ‘real world’.
I think this is where an apprenticeship comes in, and especially one with Amey. Up until applying for the apprenticeship, I had always worked in retail. But I wanted a completely different career path. I wanted new challenges, to gain experience and knowledge in a new field.
An insight into real work
After being accepted onto an Amey apprenticeship, I was put on a programme to complete both a technical certificate in my area of work and an NVQ, as well as given the opportunity to complete the DofE Gold Business Award. These, combined with the day-to-day work on the job, gave me an idea of a real life working environment.
When I first started at Amey I was part of the structures design team, working on a major highways maintenance contract in Southern England. I mainly assisted on the design drawings, learning and practicing how to use AutoCAD, as well as helping out with site visits and inspections. This was hands-on work, combined with training of technical skills.
Since I have been at Amey, I have completed a BTEC level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment, a BTEC Level 3 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations and the DofE Gold Business Award. As well as the education aspect, Amey has provided me with opportunities to attend Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge (ASK) sessions and training days. I also participate in ‘International Women in Engineering’ days, community involvement days and GATS (Graduates, Apprentices, Technicians) meetings. There have been so many great opportunities.
Volunteering as part of my apprenticeship
As part of the DofE award I spent a lot of time volunteering and raising money for Cancer Research UK, taking part in the ‘Pretty Muddy’ 5k run. I also put myself forward to be a DofE ambassador, which involved attending training days, public speaking opportunities and encouraging new apprentices to apply for the DofE.
At one of the speaking slots I did for the DofE, I met the one of their regional Directors. A few months later he contacted me and eight other gold award holders from around the country and invited us to be involved with a four-day volunteering placement.
Meeting a footballing legend and an Olympic medallist
I also attended the 10th anniversary of the Peace and Sport International Forum out in Monaco. The event was incredible and I had the chance to meet sporting professionals such as Didier Drogba and even interviewed Marlene Harnois, a taekwondo Olympic medallist. As a result of this, I am now involved in various fundraisers and charity events aiming to raise 3000 euros for one of the forum projects.
Support throughout your apprenticeship
Amey has given me constant support throughout the time I have been here, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and reach my full potential. My personal development reviews are well thought through. My line manager makes an effort to understand where I want to go and gives me confidence to push forward and do that.
Amey are a supportive employer and I feel like I’m recognised for the contribution I’m making. I am given plenty of opportunities to progress both personally and professionally and my mentor is helping me to work towards achieving my personal career goals and grow my career.
I am currently a trainee technician on the Highways design team, working on the Gloucestershire contract. I am also working towards the BTEC level 4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment, the BTEC Level 4 NVQ in Construction and Building Services Management and Supervision and my EngTech professional review. This is funded through the apprenticeship levy, which has been much in the news.
My plans going forward are to complete my HNC and NVQ and then move on to a degree in Construction Project Management as well as continuing to network and involve myself with things going on in other areas of the business.
A great opportunity to develop yourself
I would definitely recommend the Amey apprenticeship programme because it has helped me to develop new skill sets and practice the knowledge that I am gaining at college in the workplace. I really enjoy being able to take part in events and training days and giving me the confidence to do things I never thought I could do.
Working for a company that creates better places for people to live, work and travel is also rewarding. We’re improving local areas for communities and it really feels like I’m personally contributing to the difference we’re making.
My apprenticeship programme has given me the opportunity to learn on the job, gain qualifications and step out of my comfort zone in order to progress and achieve my goals.