We are delighted to be celebrating the 16th Annual National Apprenticeship Week.

We have several apprentices currently studying in a range of disciplines across our five offices. As recognised Investors in People Gold Standard, GSS are continuing to offer educational and training opportunities to all staff and are committed to investing in the future of young people. We believe in shining a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.

We have a long history of providing opportunities, training, and support in the profession, and have always been committed to training and developing our staff. Across our 144-year history, there has always been students in the office learning on the job.

The celebration is from 6th-12th February and the theme this year is ‘skills for life’; reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.

We are always striving to invest in our people and ensure that they are progressing in both their professional and personal lives. This week, we spoke to a selection of our current apprentices who reflected on why they chose this route into the industry.

Oliwia Kuzma, Architectural Apprentice said, “GSSArchitecture and Apprenticeships make me believe that I can be an architect! The support from GSS makes everything easier and less stressful. In addition to support with my studies, I am gaining first-hand experience in the profession and building my confidence and skillset required in the architectural profession. In addition, I am in better financial situation which gives me peace of mind and a great opportunity to earn whilst I learn.”

Sam Killey, Architectural Technologist Apprentice, comments, “The apprenticeship scheme has provided a whole new level of learning experience to me, and I feel this has been massively more beneficial to me over the traditional routes into industry. I spend large chunks of my time in the office learning from the experienced team members, whether that be directly answering questions or picking up conversations between themselves. After studying at levels 3 and 4 for four years in college I can confidently say the apprenticeship is the ideal way to build some concrete knowledge and learn skills in an organic manner.”

Eleanor Lee, a current Cambridge Architecture Degree Apprentice, said, “There’s nothing more beneficial to career progression than the opportunities and valuable experiences afforded to a young professional through this hands-on training backed by academic teaching. In their support and guidance, GSS continue to sustain a platform for well-rounded practitioners to apply a series of skills across a range of projects and be involved throughout the construction process. In return, the company gains dedicated young professionals offering a continuous infusion of creative ideas informed by a hub of academic resources. I chose the Cambridge Architecture Degree Apprenticeship because of its flexible course structure, and emphasis on targeting skills directly linked to professional practice through intensive, teamwork design modules.”

Alex Dalby, Architectural Technologist Apprentice, said, “An apprenticeship is not for everyone; you must be committed to studying and working at the same time. While the courses are generally longer, the progression is much faster due to this dual learning path. The skills and knowledge learnt in one can be applied to the other to boost the progression and make the process easier. A substantial reason behind choosing an apprenticeship over a traditional degree was the financial benefit. Whilst I am working, I am earning a wage and I’m not having to spend that on the course or other loans.”

Craig Darby, Architectural Apprentice, commented, “Being an apprentice at GSS has been a very valuable and rewarding opportunity. You grow quickly and apply practical knowledge from work in your studies. In return, my learning allows me to be creative and test boundaries in my career. I chose the apprenticeship route because it offered me a chance to learn and apply skills in real-time whilst simultaneously gaining years of professional experience. The fast-paced nature of university has allowed me to adapt quickly to the professional world. Being an apprentice is challenging and a real opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and develop within your vocation.”