National Apprenticeship Week is an important opportunity to recognise the value apprentices bring to organisations. At M&Y, our apprentices contribute fresh ideas, ambition, and energy to the work we do, while developing the skills they need for long and successful careers.
We are sharing the experiences of some of our apprentices across the business. Today, we are highlighting Oliver Jones, Apprentice Quantity Surveyor, who shares why he chose the apprenticeship route and how it has helped him grow both personally and professionally.
Why Oliver chose an apprenticeship
For Oliver, an apprenticeship provided the balance he was looking for between academic learning and hands on experience.
“The idea of learning in university whilst also gaining valuable work experience in my day-to-day job either being onsite or in the office” was a major factor in his decision.
He explains that the ability to connect the two learning environments has made a real difference.
“I liked the idea of being able to apply what I was learning in university into my day-to-day role. This also works the other way, being able to apply what I learn within my working environment into university and help me towards future assignments or exams.”
Oliver adds that the apprenticeship route has also better prepared him for the future.
“This route prepares me for life after university by giving me real workplace experience where I gain valuable traits and attributes needed within the workplace.”
A standout achievement
One of Oliver’s proudest moments has been a personal milestone he never expected to reach so early in his career. He had the opportunity to speak to students from The Place Academy about his apprenticeship journey.
“Before starting my apprenticeship, public speaking was something I didn’t feel confident with and avoided whenever possible.”
However, delivering his presentation marked a turning point…
“Being able to stand up and talk about my journey and present a presentation which I had put together showed me how much I have grown personally and professionally.”
He describes the sense of achievement that came with stepping out of his comfort zone.
“I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and this helped to develop my confidence, communication skills, and self-belief.”
Sharing his experience with students also felt meaningful.
“I was proud to be able to give the students an insight into my experiences and knowing that it could possibly help them feel more informed and confident about their choices.”
How an apprenticeship helped him grow
Oliver credits his apprenticeship with helping him grow “both personally and professionally by pushing me out of my comfort zone and giving me new experiences.”
He has also taken part in the LEAD programme, designed to build leadership and self-development skills.
“It consists of multiple workshops and projects focusing on developing key skills needed to be a leader.”
Through this, he has learned more about his capabilities and areas for improvement.
“I have had the opportunity to work with others, take responsibility, communicate more confidently, and reflect on my strengths.”
Learning beyond the classroom
Being on site has given Oliver practical lessons that cannot be gained through theory alone.
“Being onsite you get the experience of what it is really like to deal with real, day to day challenges.”
He says observing experienced colleagues has been invaluable.
“Watching how experienced professionals assess situations and work together to come up with solutions has been very different to learning about scenarios in a classroom.”
Oliver has also learned by listening and observing in the office.
“Listening to conversations has helped me pick up key terminology and gain an insight into how decisions are made.”
These experiences have supported his wider development.
“Working in a workplace environment has taught me communication, adapting to situations, time management, and how to conduct myself professionally.”
His advice to future apprentices
Oliver believes apprenticeships offer an invaluable start to a career.
“One of the most valuable assets you can acquire is experience within the workplace and the attributes needed to work within the industry.”
He encourages anyone thinking about an apprenticeship to take the opportunity.
“An apprenticeship is a great opportunity to combine learning with real world experience.”
His message is simple and positive.
“Based on my experiences so far on my journey, I would highly recommend considering or starting an apprenticeship.”
Interested in an apprenticeship? Find out what opportunities are available here.
