Kirsty
Antcliffe

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

When I first looked into Quantity Surveying degree apprenticeships with my Employer, NTU instantly stood out due to certain modules which are directly transferable to the workplace such as; measurement, contract administration and contract practice. Further to this, it is a RICS accredited course and NTU is one of the leading providers of construction education in the UK. It was also easily accessible via the tram route for me to travel in one day a week.

What was your favourite aspect of the course?

My favourite aspect of the course was meeting new people who were also completing a part-time degree course whilst working in the industry. This was beneficial to my development, specifically when working together in modules such as Quantity Surveying Project which enabled us to share ideas and experiences. The course also explored all types of construction such as; building, civils and energy which provided me with a wider knowledge for my career. Further to this, the lectures on the course had experience from both client and contracting backgrounds which was valuable to my learning.

Tell us a little bit about your career since leaving NTU.

Since completing my degree at NTU, I have progressed to the role of Quantity Surveyor and achieved chartered status. Completing the course enabled me to progress through my APC and with the support of NTU and my employer, I passed my chartership successfully. This has created more opportunities for my career at present and for the future. Currently, I am project QS on ‘The Market Gate Footbridge’ in Barnsley, creating a bespoke steel and glass structure over the railway line worth £7.5m.

Can you tell us more about passing your APC and how it felt to achieve chartered status so soon after completing your degree?

Passing my APC and becoming chartered was an amazing feeling as it is something I have been working towards for the last 6 years. Since joining the construction industry and starting out in the role as Trainee Quantity Surveyor, my aspiration was to gain MRICS status, so to achieve this six months after completing my degree was a proud achievement. Passing the APC process was made much smoother with the guidance from NTU and my employer.

What is your biggest piece of advice to current students and those graduating this year?

My biggest piece of advice to current students would be to focus on being organised. Managing work responsibilities, university assessments and keeping up with RICS entries can be tricky to manage sometimes, therefore it is important to set yourself goals to stay on track. Also, to enjoy your time at university and the time away from work to learn as the 5 years go by so quickly. My advice for students graduating this year would be to seek all the guidance you can from tutors, mentors and lectures in the last step of completing the degree and APC.