Building Futures Together: Northumbria University & Sir Robert McAlpine

Jack Chapman, a dedicated Trainee Quantity Surveyor, is thriving in his degree apprenticeship, combining practical industry experience with academic excellence at Northumbria University.

Jack gains real-world skills working four days a week while attending Northumbria University one day per week. This partnership ensures he develops hands-on expertise and academic knowledge — the perfect blend for future career success.

Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
I chose an apprenticeship for the prospect of having a well-supported and structured learning to my chosen career path. I am a strong advocate for learning on the job as I believe the practical experience that you get, as well as taught learning will provide you with the knowledge to kickstart a prosperous career. These are the driving factors to why I took the apprenticeship route.

Tell us about your role?

I am a trainee quantity surveyor working four days through the week with a day release to Northumbria University. I assist the commercial department in measuring works, carrying out subcontractor valuations, capturing change and helping pull together enquiry documents such as volume 2’s and pricing documents.

What does a typical day look like?

A typical day involves reviewing the latest drawings and updating any documentation/measures/estimated final accounts that is related to the drawings. Also, liaising with subcontractors comes with the role on a daily basis – this may include management of variations and agreeing on final accounts.

How has your experience been with Northumbria University?

In the short time that I have been attending Northumbria University, I have been exposed to some fantastic lectures hosted by some very knowledgeable lecturers/speakers which has high applicability to my day-to-day job, boosting my knowledge of the quantity surveying discipline. Furthermore, I have been a huge fan of the lecture style at the university – taking a break every 15-30 minutes to ask questions and to encourage students to speak up if something is not understood; the lecturers have no problem explaining concepts more than once which is reassuring as somebody who is learning. Also, I have found the University’s online portals and systems engaging and easy to navigate.

What is the best thing about your apprenticeship?

The best thing about my apprenticeship is the support that I receive from extremely experienced colleagues. The knowledge that you gain on the job is invaluable and help

What would you say to others who are thinking of doing an apprenticeship?

I strongly encourage an apprenticeship to kickstart your career in a pathway of your choice. The skills you learn at such a young age will benefit you for the rest of your career and it is also a fantastic opportunity for personal growth with the challenges you will have to overcome. An apprenticeship is also a very rewarding process with the 'earn as you learn' aspect of it.

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