To be honest, attending university full time was never for me.

I first started out doing a week of work experience at a housebuilding company when I was 16. I did a day in each department. Prior to this I told myself I never wanted to work in construction, however after my work experience I loved it.

I then went to Bellway for a week of work experience when I was 17 and spent the majority of my time with the quantity surveyors. I was sold on the job after this and joined Bellway a year later when I was 18 and I’ve never looked back.

I was attracted to an apprenticeship because I could work while getting a degree, earn a salary, and also get my university fees all paid for me. I saw it as a win-win situation. An apprenticeship gives you a head start in your chosen career.

My apprenticeship is a Chartered Quantity Surveying Degree Apprenticeship. The course covers five years, during which I attend university on one day a week to obtain my degree, and I work in the office and out on site on the other four days. If all goes well, at the end of my apprenticeship scheme I will qualify as a chartered quantity surveyor.

My first valuation meeting was a huge step for me in my career. As a quantity surveyor presenting the costs of the site is a major part of your job and to have completed this on my own was so rewarding.

I have to say that what I like most about working with my team is that there is always someone there to offer support whenever I need it. They appreciate that when you start as an apprentice you go into the job blind, so no question is ever a stupid question.