TfL celebrates National Apprenticeship Week
11 Mar 2015 01:59 PM
To mark National Apprenticeship week, we chatted with Maitri Solanki, 20, a former quantity surveying apprentice.
Why do an apprenticeship?
I wasn't sure that further education was for me, especially with the high costs involved. Getting paid to learn made an apprenticeship the obvious choice.
Which scheme did you apply for and why?
I chose a two-year scheme in quantity surveying. It's something I've always wanted to do. My father worked in the construction industry and involved me from a young age, including building our conservatory and a garage. From digging foundations to painting walls, I loved it. Of all of the professions in the industry, I thought I would be best suited to quantity surveying.
Which projects have you worked on?
My first project was learning how to cool the Tube and introduce air conditioning to stations. I have also been lucky to work on the Bond Street station upgrade, where an amazing new station that will link to Crossrail is being created.
What's next for you?
I've completed the scheme but I'm still working four days a week. The rest of the time I'm completing a part-time degree in quantity surveying, sponsored by TfL. The support I've been given by the organisation is more than I could have asked for.
What advice would you give to new apprentices?
You must be motivated and stay on top of your work, it's a challenge but is well worth it. The apprenticeship has been the greatest opportunity I could have ever imagined.
- We have created more than 200 apprenticeship roles this year.
To find out more and apply, visit tfl.gov.uk/apprentices
Tweet our apprentices
All this week, apprentices from various schemes will be answering your questions on Twitter. They will also offer tips and advice from 16:30 to 17:00.
Send all your questions to @TfL using the hashtag #AskaTfLapprentice.