National Apprenticeship Week 2024 - Kate's Story

National Apprenticeship Week 2024 is February 5 to 11, 2024. The event spans a week, uniting businesses and apprentices nationwide, with the goal of highlighting the positive influence apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the broader economy.

Many students who have completed their studies at Rochdale Sixth Form College have successfully secured apprenticeships across a wide range of workplaces.

Kate Fleming, a former RSFC student is now completing a Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying at Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited. This is her story. 

Why did you choose a degree apprenticeship?

Degree apprenticeships offer real-world experience alongside study and embody the term, earn-while-you-learn. They are a great alternative to studying for a degree at university. I chose to pursue a degree apprenticeship because it offers hands-on work experience alongside my studies and also allows me to stay at home, meaning I can continue with other commitments in my spare time. Choosing a degree apprenticeship also allows me to develop personal and professional relationships which will help me further my career. This is something I feel will be of benefit to me in the future. I am excited to be working on a variety of real-world projects, without accumulating student debt which I would have done going to university.

How long does a degree apprenticeship take to complete?

The Quantity Surveyor Apprenticeship which I have undertaken will take five years to complete. My working week includes four days in the office and on-site with Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited, with one day attending lectures and seminars at university. Once completed I will achieve a Level 6 Chartered Quantity Surveyor Degree by completing a combination of university studies and work-based experience and evidence.

What were the different stages of the application process?

For the first part of the application process, I was given a scenario to complete and a problem to solve which was relevant to the course. I was then asked questions about my personal attributes, and why I would like to work for the company. It’s beneficial to complete research about the company you are applying to via their website and social media before completing any tasks, so you have knowledge about what they do, any specific projects they are working on or charities they support. The second part of the application process was to complete a mathematical assessment to check that my skills were suitable for the role. For the third part I had to complete a pre-recorded interview, answering a range of questions. The questions were specific to the role and were based around any experience or skills I have that might be relevant, for example: What is the toughest challenge you have faced and how did you overcome it?; What skills have you gained from any part-time jobs or work experience and how are they relevant to the position you have applied for? The last stage was to attend a face-to-face interview at the head office of the company. They asked why I wanted to work for them and asked about my skills, knowledge and experience and how these relate to the job. They also gave me the opportunity to ask any questions that I had about the role and the apprenticeship.

How has RSFC helped you prepare for the role?

My Student Performance and Development Leader (SPDL) was really supportive throughout my time at RSFC, helping me to research different progression pathways. I was unsure whether to pursue a degree at university or apply for a degree apprenticeship. I discussed the options with my SPDL and they provided a range of resources so I could make an informed choice. They also supported me with my CV and application forms for the various apprenticeship roles I applied for, as all positions asked for slightly different information. I have developed a range of skills throughout my time at RSFC that are transferable to my next steps, some of these being: time management, presentation skills, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and communication.