Line managers - What do they think?

Matthew Trewartha

Partner at Fisher German, based in Ashby De-La-Zouch and line manager to Millie Paterson - first year chartered surveyor apprentice (Rural Pathway)

Matthew Willoughby

Associate Director, based in Newark and line manager to Alice Webb - first year chartered surveyor apprentice (Rural Pathway)

"Hello and thanks for taking the time to share your experiences with us! As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2020, it would be really beneficial for the readers to understand the impact that an apprentice can bring to both your team and the wider business. To start, why did you choose to bring an apprentice to your team?"

Matt T - Several reasons! But I would say that one of the main reasons was because we are unable to recruit sufficient numbers of graduates at the right calibre, because there are too few and so this was a great opportunity to develop a surveyor from scratch who works in the FG way and has real life experiences and on the job training. All of this whilst passing the RICS APC within the same time frames as the University route

Matt W - At the start of the 2018 year I started a new utilities team in our Newark office. After a successful first year it was clear that there was enough work to justify the recruitment of a professional assistant to help me. The apprenticeship scheme has been ideal to introduce an enthusiastic new member of professional staff who can grow along with the team as we increase the number of new instructions and clients.

"So it's clear that you both had different reasons as to why the addition of an apprentice would benefit your teams. Thinking back before you made this decision, how much did you know about apprenticeships?"

Matt T - Very little if I am being honest. I knew it was an option but after discussing with various colleagues across the business who already have apprentices in their teams, I thought it was the right decision for me.

Matt W - A reasonable amount. FG had done a really good job of promoting apprenticeships in the firm. Other utility teams had taken an apprentice the year before I did and were able to provide a valuable insight to how it works.

"Great! It sounds like apprentices already within the business are having a very positive impact and the exposure has helped you to make your decision. For those who are less exposed to apprenticeships, what advice would you give them before considering hiring an apprentice?"

Matt T - Time! You have to give them time and understand that they are often quite young and this is a big change in their lives. They need support, support, support.

Matt W - The effectiveness of the scheme comes down to the attitude of the apprentice so the interview is key to ensuring you recruit a motivated individual. The apprenticeship programme lasts 5 years so the apprentice and their line manager need to be able to commit to it fully.  

"There is clearly a large commitment with apprenticeships, and a lot of apprentices have chosen their pathway to avoid going to University, but can miss out on some of the social experiences often associated with being at Uni. What social events do Fisher German have that apprentices can get involved in?

Matt T - We are a social bunch and we have a great number of young people in the business that our apprentices can socialise with. We are also have endless events, sports days, evenings out etc. and we encourage our young people to get involved in local activities. 

Matt W - There are several social events and challenges organised in the region for apprentices to be involved in. This year the team did the Yorkshire 3 Peaks challenge and we are planning several events for the coming year including cycle rides and other physical activities. This is on top of whole FG activities such as the big event.  

"Absolutely! Our people are at the heart of everything that we do and the wide range of social events are just an example of how we all get involved. Finally, what do you think makes Fisher German stand out as a great place for apprentices?"

Matt T - Easy - our culture!

Matt W - We have a thriving young workforce who will make any apprentice feel welcome. We can offer a wide breadth of experience and all the support required.