I look fondly back on my time at Reigate College. Leaving a school that didn’t have a sixth form, it took me out of my comfort zone, throwing me in at the deep end with new people and surroundings. Looking back this couldn’t have been a better move as I gained confidence to speak to new people, learnt about their opinions and experiences, and widened my own views.
College life itself provided a new spectrum of freedom I hadn’t encountered before, which I loved. Having the responsibilities of my studies and yet being able to utilise my free time – whether at the gym, learning to drive or being with friends – provided a balance that I believe benefitted me greatly.
I strongly recall it was College that prompted me to look at apprenticeships: I identified relatively early on in College I wanted to go into work once I left. The idea hadn’t crossed my mind that I could pursue further education whilst working. The Careers specialists and my tutors provided me more information on what was available to me. Looking back, I’m extremely glad for this insight and help as I don’t believe I would have achieved what I have today if I hadn’t explored the options out there.
I undertook a Level 7 degree apprenticeship through the University College of Estate Management while working at Workman LLP, so for four years I worked full-time whilst also studying my degree, graduating in 2023.
I’ve continued to stay with Workman now employed as a Management Surveyor managing property portfolios for our institutional investor clients. I’m involved in the collection of rents, service charges, undertaking inspections, negotiations of new residential and commercial leases, and reporting to clients (to name a few!).
My time, like many, was slightly hindered by the pesky virus that made the world stand still during 2020. The real estate industry took a hit during this time too. Though the buildings were still there, the people were not! This introduced working from home to our sector, which added more work-life balance in the industry. This modernisation of hybrid working has enabled companies to allow their staff to work from home, with positive work and social outcomes. It has also created a real drive for property owners to ensure their buildings are sustainable and inviting, which has driven lots of new projects, so I’ve got involved in a large number of redevelopments, lettings and refurbishments.
Overall, the apprenticeship has led me in good stead, I believe. With five years’ practical experience behind me, I now lead two of my own portfolios at the firm. I’ve also recently set up a committee internally at our firm to mentor and support apprentices. As the chair, I’ve nominated regional representatives to check on their groups of apprentices and organise social interaction. It’s great to see the real estate sector encouraging the integration of apprentices further, with new, qualified cohorts coming through.
Looking to the future, I have a few goals. As I look to climb the ladder to further promotions, the most important for me is passing my assessment of professional competency exam (APC) and becoming a fully qualified member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. My preparations are underway, and I am hoping to sit the exam in late 2024.
If I were to give one piece of advice to College students, it would be to review what’s best for you. You’re in work a long time, and so I’d suggest anyone who is looking to do an apprenticeship to take their time reviewing the options out there. I had no intention of working as a surveyor when I started College – it was only through speaking to people and taking the initiative to see what was out there that I stumbled upon an application process. Widening your network through websites such as LinkedIn are also great avenues to speak to people and hear about new trends and opportunities.
Ben Hoadley
Reigate College: 2017-2019
Higher education: BA Real Estate Management (L7 Degree Apprenticeship), University College of Estate Management while working at Workman LLP
Currently: Management Surveyor, Workman LLP
