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National Apprenticeship Week 2026 – Since joining AW Rail in January 2025 as an Apprentice Quantity Surveyor, Jerzy has already made a significant impact on our daily operations, both through his professional contributions and his attitude towards learning. His journey with us began even earlier, when he first engaged with AW Rail  on work experience. From the outset, Jerzy demonstrated enthusiasm, curiosity, and a clear commitment to developing his skills, which ultimately led him to secure his apprenticeship with us . That early engagement set the tone for the qualities he continues to display today: dedication, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.

In his short time with us, Jerzy has taken every opportunity to immerse himself in the full life cycle of projects. He has shadowed different members of the team to gain a rounded perspective of the Quantity Surveyor role, from early scoping and pricing through to delivery and completion. His ability to observe, absorb, and then apply his learning has been noticeable, and it has already benefitted the team by allowing us to entrust him with real responsibilities. For example, Jerzy has been involved in pricing jobs independently, which was a significant step forward in building his technical confidence.

Jerzy’s involvement has spanned across a wide range of projects, from labour supply and civil works to more rail-specific undertakings. Organise deliveries of plant and materials and subcontractors. Completing tasks set by others with short deadlines. Meeting new and old clients face-to-face to build good relations so they know if they need something I can help.

He has visited sites to scope works giving him valuable exposure to practical project delivery. This hands-on experience has been particularly important in linking his academic studies to real-world application, and he has shown great initiative in bridging that gap. His ability to ask the right questions and engage constructively with colleagues has helped the team ensure that nothing is overlooked.

Of course, no apprenticeship is without its challenges, and Jerzy has faced these with resilience and maturity. Adjusting to technical jargon in a professional environment where most colleagues are more experienced could have been daunting, yet Jerzy approached it with patience and persistence. By continually listening, engaging, and practicing, he now uses that language confidently and effectively. Balancing the competing demands of pricing responsibilities and college coursework has also tested his time management, but his organisation and determination have enabled him to stay on track.

His academic results reflect this, with six pieces of coursework submitted so far – three achieving distinction and three at merit level. This consistency demonstrates his ability not just to meet expectations but to excel. Working on the last unit before prepping for my end point assessment to achieve my L4 Construction Surveying Technician. Then hoping to progress further on in qualifications such as level 5 or 6 to help progress to an assistant QS then a Senior QS.

Jerzy’s presence has brought clear benefits to the rail team beyond the tasks he completes. His eagerness to contribute has created a positive ripple effect, reminding us all in the value of fresh perspectives and new energy. His attitude has made him approachable and dependable, and his sense of humour has added to the positive atmosphere in the workplace.

Jerzy’s commitment to learning and development gives us confidence that he will continue to grow into a highly skilled Quantity Surveyor. Jerzy has proven himself to be an asset to both the team and the wider organisation.