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Drawn to quantity surveying for its blend of commercial and legal expertise, Alexander Livesey chose the degree apprenticeship route to combine real workplace experience with fully funded academic study, graduating with both a degree and five years of hands-on experience, and no student debt. We spoke to Alexander to find out more about his greatest achievement and career progression to date.

We asked Alexander...

What made you want to pursue Construction Quantity Surveying?

I was drawn to a career in quantity surveying because it combines the commercial and legal aspects of construction, two areas I am passionate about.

There is a high demand for quantity surveyors, especially in the North West, so I recognised this as a great career opportunity.

Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship?

I chose a degree apprenticeship as it combines on-the-job learning with knowledge developed through university studies. This has allowed me to hone my skills as a QS while studying towards my degree.

In addition, the degree is fully funded by my employer, meaning that I will have no debt upon completion of the course.

What does your apprenticeship involve day to day?

As an Assistant Estimator, my day-to-day tasks include:

• Preparing cost estimates for negotiated and tendered projects
• Identifying risks, assessing their likelihood and impact, and developing suitable mitigation strategies, contingency sums, etc.
• Carrying out value engineering studies to reduce project costs without reducing quality
• Completing take-offs in accordance with NRM2 to quantify and cost works
• Negotiation with the supply chain to obtain competitive prices.
• My typical week involves four days in the office or on-site and one study day at the university.

Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?

Overall, the apprenticeship has been a hugely rewarding experience. I take great pride in looking back and acknowledging how my career has developed since starting over 3 years ago at 18, with very limited knowledge of what a QS does.

It is challenging, however, to look back and see how far I have progressed, and the tasks I am now able to complete are incredibly rewarding.

How would you describe the support that you’ve received from the º£½ÇÂÒÂ×?

The support received from the University has been crucial. The advice received from Learning & Development Coaches regarding logging KSBs and off-the-job training has been vital in ensuring I stay up to date with the requirements for the End Point Assessment to achieve MCIOB accreditation.

Lecturers are industry experts who offer insight and knowledge into the construction industry. They are approachable and offer helpful advice and pointers on draft assignments.

What has been your proudest achievement in your apprenticeship to date?

My proudest achievement so far is being promoted to Assistant Estimator last year. Knowing that all the hard work that has gone into my university studies and on-the-job work has paid off and been recognised by a promotion is incredibly rewarding.

What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship?

Go for it! Apprenticeships are a great way of building a strong career from an early age. Working alongside studying gives you an edge over those who have studied full-time at a university. Once you earn your degree, you will also have 5 years of work experience to go along with it.

Do you have any advice for future apprentices?

Stay organised. Managing work alongside university tasks can be difficult. Start your assignments as early as possible to leave yourself enough time. You aren’t expected to know everything on day one. Keep asking your senior colleagues questions. This will help you to learn on the job.