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Matthew Hitchcock- Level 6 Chartered Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship (Quantity Surveyor Pathway)

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

"I chose to start an apprenticeship because I believed that the practical skills you learn at work are extremely useful for advancing in your chosen profession. After I had finished my work experience at Bowmer & Kirkland, I knew that I could learn more through an apprenticeship, which is why I chose the degree apprenticeship route."

Why did you choose to study at NTU?

"The reason I chose to attend was because the University has a very good reputation with regards to the Quantity Surveyor apprenticeship course. I discussed the apprenticeship route I would be taking with other apprentices and work colleagues. I was advised that NTU are supportive, have a range of lecturers and provide you with the necessary skills to succeed in the industry. Overall, with the large amount of good feedback, I decided that NTU was for me."

How do you believe this apprenticeship will affect both your current job role and future career?

"The apprenticeship and work-based learning integrate seamlessly together enabling the technical knowledge learned at University to be applied directly within the workplace.

As part of the apprenticeship end-point assessment we are also given the opportunity to sit our APC to become a chartered member of the RICS. If passed, this is one of the highest achievements a Quantity Surveyor can achieve. Overall, the skills learnt within the qualification will enable me to progress throughout my career."

How would you rate the teaching and support staff on this apprenticeship?

"I would rate the teaching and support staff highly within NTU. The teaching is professional and offers sufficient support to enable you to complete the relevant assessment criteria. The support staff such as IT and the Library are also easy to contact, even when working remotely away from the University.

In short, if you take a proactive approach to engage with the teaching staff then it will greatly benefit your learning and career progression."

As part of the apprenticeship end-point assessment we are also given the opportunity to sit our APC to become a chartered member of the RICS. If passed, this is one of the highest achievements a Quantity Surveyor can achieve.

What skills and experience have you gained as part of this apprenticeship?

"I have improved drastically in relation to my technical knowledge and skills as expected. However, I have seen a large increase in my communication skills enabling me to be confident and converse with Clients easily."

What advice would you give to someone considering a higher/degree apprenticeship?

"I would advise that students shouldn’t underestimate the knowledge and experience that you gain by doing an apprenticeship. For instance, you’re learning from industry specialists, knowledgeable lecturers and university peers. Many students also underestimate the number of apprenticeships which are out there and the large amount of jobs/work areas they cover. Therefore, you should research whether there are any apprenticeships in your desired field of work.  Overall, with apprenticeships, you earn whilst you learn, meaning you’re financially and educationally better off."

To learn more about our apprenticeship courses, please contact apprenticeships@ntu.ac.uk.