A big increase in the number of apprenticeships offered by commercial property companies to school leavers could help solve the national skills shortage, according to leading national property consultancy Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH).
Adam Ramshaw, regional director for the Midlands, said: “LSH is committed to providing more opportunities for young people who want to start a career early. There’s nothing wrong with the traditional university route, but I think the industry is missing a trick by not doing more to capture talent earlier. This would help bring much needed diversity into our industry.
“Attracting people of all ages is a challenge, but one thing we are focused on is providing high quality apprenticeships,” said Adam. “It’s a win-win. We’re able to bring talented people into the business and they can begin a rewarding career in an exciting industry without the burden of a large student loan.”
LSH is supporting young apprentices who want a career as RICS-qualified chartered surveyors as well those seeking opportunities in marketing, finance and administration. In recent months they have taken on a number of young apprentices across the firm, including three in the Midlands, who are now gaining experience in building surveying, valuation, lease advisory and agency.
Adam added: “There will always be a need for graduates with real estate qualifications, and we shouldn’t forget the need to attract more mature candidates with experience of the market. However, LSH is committed to giving more young people from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to build a career in commercial property.”
LSH offers two levels of surveying apprenticeship; Surveying Technician which is aimed at those with GCESs (or equivalent) and which gives them a diploma and pathway to AssocRICS level. They also offer a Chartered Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship which offers a BSc (hons) degree and a route to RICS’ Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).