Sydney completed the T Level in Construction, which included an industry placement at Gallagher Group. She is now studying towards a chartered surveyor degree apprenticeship
It allowed me to gain a qualification and construction experience simultaneously. This combined academic study with a real industry placement and the opportunity to learn while actively gaining skills in the construction industry really appealed to me.
Being able to put my college theory into real-life situations. I spent over 45 days on an industry placement, and I particularly enjoyed seeing how projects progressed over time by visiting sites each week, which helped me understand the full construction process step by step. I also really valued the variety of projects at the Gallagher Group and the way they tailored tasks to help develop my skills and confidence.
It helped me prepare by providing both a strong academic foundation and valuable hands-on experience for the next step in my career. The combination of classroom learning and an industry placement enabled me to apply what I was learning in real time.
By the end of my industry placement, I had gained confidence, practical skills and a clear understanding of how the business operated, which made the transition into a degree apprenticeship much smoother.
I have always wanted to work in property development and eventually run my own business. Through my T Level industry placement, I became interested in understanding what happens behind the scenes in construction, including winning contracts and managing projects.
Surveying allowed me to develop a broader understanding of the industry beyond manual site work, which aligns with my long-term career ambitions.
My apprenticeship came about through my T Level industry placement at Gallagher Group. During this work experience, I gradually got to know the business, and they got to know me.
By the time my industry placement ended and I completed my T Level qualification, they had a clear understanding of my strengths and learning style, which led to me being offered a degree apprenticeship in chartered surveying.
I'm working towards becoming a chartered surveyor through a degree apprenticeship with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which means I study part time while gaining real experience in areas like:
My programme typically lasts around five years, combining on‑the‑job learning with study at South Bank University.
The role involves:
I enjoy building on the solid foundation I gained during my T Level. Because I already had first-hand industry experience, I didn't feel like a complete newcomer and could contribute more confidently. I also enjoy gaining hands-on experience while continuing to develop my knowledge within the construction and property development sector.
One of the biggest challenges I've faced is overcoming judgement from others who believed I wouldn't succeed, particularly in a male-dominated industry. Proving my capability and confidence in that environment has been challenging, but also extremely rewarding.
Completing my T Level industry placement with Gallagher Group, a proudly female‑owned business, gave me the confidence I needed to overcome this and take my first steps into the industry.
It's important to take time to experience new things and make memories, especially when you work in a busy industry like construction. I love spending time with my friends, whether that's going out locally or planning spontaneous trips away. It helps me come back to work refreshed and full of new ideas.
My proudest achievement was being offered my job at Gallagher Group. I not only met expectations but exceeded them, proving that gender should never be a barrier to success in construction or property development.
My long-term ambition is to influence the construction and property industry positively by applying everything I have learned through my education and work experience.
Don't let being different hold you back. Whether you're the only woman in the room or come from a non-traditional background, your perspective is valuable. The industry is evolving, and there is space for everyone to succeed. Stay confident, work hard and never underestimate your potential.
