After completing his A-levels, Will joined Core Five’s Apprentice programme as a Trainee Surveyor in our specialist Engineering Services team. Joining us from school, he had limited real-life experience of the construction industry.

Now armed with over three years on-the-job experience, Will is currently completing the final year of his BSc Quantity Surveying degree and is looking forward to graduating in 2023.

Find out what Will has to say about his experience as an Apprentice at Core Five…

How did you get started in the construction industry?

After achieving my A-levels, I was unsure whether to go to university or straight into work. My family members have always worked in the construction industry, which initially sparked my interest. However, undertaking work experience during sixth form solidified my choice. Although it can be daunting, the idea of studying alongside working appealed to me and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to do this with success.

What is your biggest achievement to date at Core Five and why?

I joined Core Five as a Trainee and have recently been promoted to an Assistant. I had limited knowledge coming into the industry, but this step has made me realise how much I have learnt due to support of my colleagues, internal training, university studies and most importantly, on-the-job experience working on some of the industries most complex projects.

Next Steps?

I am still studying at the University College of Estate Management (UCEM) and will be completing my degree in February 2023.
Upon graduating, I will be turning my attention to my APC! I’m looking forward to working with colleagues, those who are also working towards their APC but also those who have recently been through the process. It’s a great opportunity to learn from their experiences to help me become a chartered member of the RICS.

What advice would you give to someone considering an Apprenticeship?

My advice would be go for it! Most of my friends went to University and enjoyed it. However, for me, being in the working environment has benefitted me so much more and has allowed me to apply the knowledge I have learnt in my degree to practical scenarios. I have also had the benefit of working alongside people who have experienced being an apprentice so it’s a great opporuntity to ask questions and learn from others who have shared similar experiences!

Outside the world of surveying, what do you enjoy doing the most?

The majority of weekends you will find me watching Arsenal! Fortunately, I am a season ticket holder and try to attend most home games.