Why building surveying apprenticeships are worth it

Hi, I'm Tom, a Chartered Building Surveyor based in the Manchester office. I conduct condition and defect surveys and manage and design various construction projects. I've been at AtkinsRéalis for seven years, starting right after finishing sixth form. My secondary school heavily promoted going to university, but I wasn't sure it would be right for me. That's when I started looking into degree apprenticeships. The one at AtkinsRéalis seemed a good way to gain a degree and work experience without getting into a lot of student debt. This decision set the foundation for a career focused on continuous learning and adapting to new challenges.

My top building surveying career accomplishments

I'm proud to have finished my University College of Estate Management (UCEM) degree with a first and became a chartered surveyor at 24. Along the way, I've worked on some amazing projects, including surveys of prestigious buildings in Manchester. And it's been incredibly fulfilling to see construction projects I've designed and managed on-site come to life, making a real positive impact on people who use them. It's also been rewarding to make a difference in my local community by surveying key buildings, identifying issues and recommending solutions. Volunteering has been a highlight, especially helping with gardening projects at schools and children's centres to create outdoor learning spaces.

Advice for becoming a building surveyor

Say yes to new opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Don't be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes—it's the best way to learn in a fast-paced work environment. Consider the building surveying degree apprenticeship instead of university. Not only will you earn a first-class degree, but you'll also gain real-world experience that's highly valued across the industry. You'll finish with practical knowledge, a great network of professionals, and transferable skills that will support your career for life.

How apprenticeships help build confidence?

Confidence was a challenge early in my career. My role required me to visit active building sites and interact with clients, staff and building managers, which is crucial for the success of every survey. At first, I struggled with this due to my lack of experience. But by throwing myself into surveys and engaging with people, I built my skills and self-assurance. The apprenticeship gave me real responsibilities from day one, helping me grow in leadership and confidence. Now, talking to new people and building relationships is something I really enjoy.

Can I become a chartered surveyor via apprenticeship?

With the support of our northwest Building Surveying team, I've transformed myself from an 18-year-old, fresh out of sixth form with little knowledge of building surveying and construction, to a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Chartered Building Surveyor. The apprenticeship gave me the knowledge, experience, and confidence to tackle complex challenges early in my career. This would not have been possible without the apprenticeship. Had I gone down the traditional university route, I would have missed out on the hands-on experience that helped me become chartered so quickly.

So what are you waiting for? Scroll down to browse our apprenticeship opportunities and gain lifelong skills for a rewarding career.