Roads, bridges, railways and flood defences
An apprenticeship is a real, paid job. The apprentice works for an employer and trains with us at the same time, and comes out with a nationally recognised qualification and the experience to go with it.
The short answer
Entry Requirements
We welcome applications from individuals with a passion for construction and a desire to build a career in quantity surveying or estimation.
Typical entry requirements include:
No Traditional Qualifications? We Still Want to Hear from You!
At UCNL, we’re committed to widening participation and creating pathways into education for people from all walks of life.
If you don’t meet the standard academic requirements but have relevant industry experience or have been out of formal education for some time, we’ll still consider your application.
Each application is reviewed individually, and we’ll provide advice and guidance to help you understand your options.
Key Information:
Ready to start your journey into the world of Civil Engineering? Apply now or get in touch for personalised guidance.
The employer sets the real bar, so treat this as a guide. If somebody is close but not quite there, it is still worth the conversation.
Supporting engineers in both office and site environments, turning complex plans into structures that get built.
Planning, design and delivery of engineering projects, working closely with civil engineers, contractors and project managers.
Covers project planning, design support, delivery, working with contractors and project managers
Technical drawings and 3D models using CAD software, to the accuracy the rest of the project depends on.
Covers technical drawings, 3D modelling, CAD software
Assisting in site investigations and data collection, then monitoring construction progress and checking it against the design.
Covers site investigations, data collection, monitoring progress, design compliance
Risk assessments and environmental impact studies, which on infrastructure projects are not paperwork exercises.
Covers risk assessment, environmental impact studies, technical compliance
Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Civil Engineering The HNC is assessed through a series of coursework-based assignments. These are designed to test your understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of quantity surveying. Assessment methods typically include: Written assignments and reports Practical tasks and scenario-based problem solving Project work Presentations and group work Technical drawings and cost plans Each unit is graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction, and you’ll complete a set number of core and specialist units over the 3-year programme. End Point Assessment (EPA) The EPA is the final stage of your apprenticeship and confirms that you’re fully competent in your role. It’s conducted by an independent End Point Assessment Organisation and includes two key components: 1 Work-Based Project with Report and Presentation You’ll complete a real-world project related to your day-to-day responsibilities. Submit a detailed written report Deliver a professional presentation to showcase your findings, approach, and outcomes Demonstrates your ability to apply knowledge and solve real problems in a construction setting 2 Professional Discussion (Supported by Portfolio) A structured interview with an assessor, based on your portfolio of evidence built during the apprenticeship. Reflects your development of Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) Allows you to discuss your contributions to projects, your decision-making, and how you’ve met the standard’s expectations Grading You must pass all three components to successfully complete the apprenticeship. Final grading is awarded as: Pass Distinction
Work launched in class and completed in the job, building the evidence the assessor will look at.
The employer, the apprentice and the tutor. Half an hour. Progress, targets, and anything getting in the way.
Marked by a tutor who is not theirs, so the feedback is honest and the real thing holds no surprises.
Successful completion of the apprentice can lead to progression onto Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering. Or alternatively progression to a Degree Apprenticeship
Not sure what comes after this one? Tell us the role and we'll tell you honestly which of our apprenticeships, higher apprenticeships or university-level courses fits next.
It takes two, an employer and an apprentice. Pick your side.
Recruiting, or formalising the training of someone already in post? Start with a conversation. We'll check the role, sort the funding, and get them enrolled.
Speak to us today 01724 281111
Or advertise a vacancy through us and we'll handle the recruitment.
An apprenticeship is a job, so an employer has to take you on before you can start. Already employed in this kind of role? Your manager can put you forward directly.
No vacancy that suits? Register your interest and we'll tell you when one comes up.
