Bethany Turner

Which Apprenticeships are you currently undertaking with The Sheffield College?

The Level 4 BTEC & NVQ in Construction & Building Services Management

 

Why did you choose to study an Apprenticeship with The Sheffield College?

The apprenticeship is offered in partnership with Wates, a management contractor within the construction industry.

 

What are the most important skills that you have gained on your Apprenticeship so far? E.g. technical skills, teamwork, knowledge of a particular subject

It has been important for me to learn the theory behind the work I do every day on site. The HNC covers a wide range of topics, from law and contracts to health and safety and site operations. I believe it will help to give me the technical knowledge that I need to become a better site manager.

 

Do you have any comments about your Training Assessment Facilitator (TAF)/ Work-based Learning Assessor (WBA)? Are they supportive? Have they taught you something new or helped you to develop a skill?

My WBA David is very helpful - if I ever have issues with understanding what evidence is required for my NVQ, or if I need clarification on a particular question, he is always willing to help.

 

What facilities have you enjoyed using or found particularly useful during your Apprenticeship?

Despite the pressures of COVID-19, the college has adapted and been able to facilitate the delivery of online lectures during block releases. This has allowed my apprenticeship to continue with minimal impact.

 

What would you like to do when you complete your current Apprenticeship? E.g. a higher level Apprenticeship, university, a full-time job etc.

I am currently being trained for a site manager role upon completion of my apprenticeship, with the option to gain a degree. However, Wates provide opportunities to experience placements in different roles including design, quantity surveying and planning, so I have a wide variety of jobs to choose from. This is what makes the program unique to me.

 

Do you feel like your Apprenticeship has prepared you to take the next step in your education or career? If yes, what has helped prepare you?

Yes. The apprenticeship helps me to make the link between theory and practical experience. The NVQ also requires me to gather sufficient evidence of the work I carry out, which will be helpful for me when it comes to applying for membership to the CIOB (Chartered Institute for Builders).