Ben

STUDIED: Design, Surveying & Planning T-level 

FORMER SCHOOL:  Bedminster Down Secondary School 

“I wanted to pursue a career in civil engineering, and when I contacted Weston College, they recommended the T Level, which turned out to be the best choice for me. I'm really enjoying the emphasis on work experience in this course, and I appreciate how specific and relevant all the learning materials are to the industry. The maths, technical knowledge, and understanding of rules and regulations are all focused on preparing us for a future career in construction. 

As part of my course I gain access to Weston College’s Careers Excellence Hub in Construction and as part of this the real-life experience I gained from construction sites has been incredibly valuable. It has helped me improve my confidence, social skills, and technical knowledge. Work experience allows me to apply what I've learned in the classroom and civils lab to real-world contexts, which has been instrumental in my development. 

Throughout the course, I completed work placements at St Modwen's, Kier, and Willmott Dixon. These placements allowed me to work alongside professionals in various disciplines such as designers, quantity surveyors, site engineers, and planners. One memorable experience was working at Kier, where I assisted in designing a small sustainable structure using CAD. I collected information about the existing design and site conditions and presented my design to the team. This experience significantly improved my skills and confidence in design. 

Site visits have also contributed to my learning. For example, I visited the Sovereign Centre in Weston while it was under construction, where I had the opportunity to discuss design decisions and communication with the client. Another site visit was to a cinema in Bridgwater, where I learned about prefabricated construction and other modern techniques. 

The guest visitors to the college have been invaluable. We've had the opportunity to hear from drone surveyors and professionals working on projects like the Banwell Bypass and at Hydrock. These visits have given us insight into different roles in the industry and the paths individuals took to reach their positions. They have also provided networking opportunities and a chance to enquire about apprenticeships and work placements. 

This course has provided me with a deep understanding of the industry, and a range of experiences that have helped me determine my career path. My tutors have supported me in exploring my options and setting goals for myself. 

My next step is to pursue an HNC and then a degree in civil engineering at university. Ultimately, I aspire to become chartered in civil engineering. The experience and competence I've gained at Weston College have given me the confidence to enter the industry and begin my career.”