Research suggests that growth in surveying apprenticeships has blossomed over the last three years, as more young people take advantage of learning and developing in a hands-on role that can often lead to quick career progression and advanced qualifications.
In 2018/19, 1053 apprentices enrolled onto the Chartered Surveyor Degree apprenticeship, growing from just 69 in 2015/16. Successful completion of this apprenticeship leads directly to gaining chartered surveyor status (MRICS). RICS research also shows that this growth has not had a negative impact on full-time degrees.
Uwais Paderwala joined Gardiner & Theobald in London as an apprentice at age 16 – back in September 2011 – and as part of his Chartered Degree Surveyor Apprenticeship Uwais attended university one day a week, gaining a First-Class degree in Quantity Surveying, before progressing to Project Surveyor and qualifying as RICS’ youngest chartered surveyor (at age 22) in 2017.
He commented: “It doesn’t surprise me that more people are opting for an apprenticeship route into the industry as it offers an exciting chance to get your foot in the door, gain invaluable work experience and skills in your chosen field while learning the theory side of the job, which leads to valuable qualifications. Seeing how the practical interlinks with the theory has proved the best way for me to learn and helped me achieve my RICS membership at a much earlier age than most.”
Last year, Uwais was named the UK’s ‘RICS Young Apprentice of the Year’ at the annual RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year Awards (YSOYA) for going above and beyond in his role – continually exceeding client expectations – and for his work to inspire the next generation, including giving speeches on his experience as an apprentice at key industry events.
Mike Cox, Future Talent Manager – Apprenticeships at RICS commented: “The fact that Uwais qualified as RICS’ youngest chartered surveyor at age 22, and achieved the RICS Young Apprentice of the Year title, demonstrates just what can be achieved when undertaking an apprenticeship and working hard.”
He adds: “Despite the significant rise in the number of people coming into the profession through surveying apprenticeships, we are not being complacent; we are working closely with providers to ensure that the delivery of apprenticeships is of the highest quality. We are also working with employers, both large and small, to help support those who are looking to employ their first apprentices.”
