Meet Tyler Wheeler, our Surveying Technician apprentice

Tyler was offered an apprenticeship three months into her career at Anchor and found herself back studying for the first time in ten years. 

When did you begin your apprenticeship?

I was offered the apprenticeship three months into my role at Anchor and having not studied for almost 10 years I felt it would be a challenge. But I set out to prove to myself that in fact a challenge is not always a bad thing and to give it my best shot.

What did you study?

My apprenticeship was Level 3 and an 18 month programme alongside of this I would undertake a separate task of completing my RICS accreditation. This included practical tasks on day release at Leeds College of building, exams and assignment based projects as well as a separate assessment conducted by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

How did you juggle studying with work?

It was a huge learning experience for me, and something I found quite challenging at first, as I wasn’t used to studying. Finding that spare time aside working full time, running a house and having a social life I managed to remain focused on doing my best. I would say I am much more productive and organised than I was before - which just shows how much you can learn if you really throw yourself into new challenges.

Did you face any challenges while completing your apprenticeship?

Nerves were a huge one for me when I sat my first exam it was very daunting given, I had not sat in such a pressurised environment for a long time! Despite doing as much revision as possible it didn’t seem enough – until I received my results!

How has the apprenticeship helped you in your day-to-day role?

By undertaking this particular apprenticeship, I now have a vast understanding of how best to deal with tasks and projects I am involved in. I am able to incorporate both Anchor and RICS competencies into my working day in order to generate the maximum aid for both Anchor and our residents.

Has the apprenticeship helped with career opportunities?

Having always worked in property from the get go but in different fields such as estate agency and conveyancing I was never really sure which route I would take until joining Anchor and been given this amazing opportunity I now know surveying is the job for me as I thoroughly enjoy it and I hope I can put my newly learnt skills to use and excel here at Anchor. Given the new skills and knowledge I have acquired I feel I am ready to begin my surveyor’s role. I have so much support within our team that I know any obstacles will not be faced alone and the correct guidance is on hand if ever needed.

Do you have any advice for those considering an apprenticeship?

Do not ever doubt yourself, any goal you set is achievable if you put your mind to it and give it your all. Choose something you have a general interest in that way it doesn’t feel like a chore, you can find enjoyment in it too! Keep all of your work consistent and re-use your assignment formats once you are happy with it, this saves time and ensures all of the required information is included.

As daunting as it all is at first with the masses of new information and work required it is so worth it! I have picked up so many new competencies expanded my capabilities and really exceeded what I first thought were my abilities - with that in hand I am eager and excited to progress within my new role at Anchor putting it all to use! The gratification, the opportunities and overall proud feeling makes it all worthwhile. Cliché... but I am over the moon with what I have achieved.

To find out more about Anchor apprenticeships, click here.