NAW Case Study - Lewis Body

National Apprenticeship Case Study: Developing Future Quantity Surveyors

Introduction

Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing skilled professionals who can contribute immediately to their organisations while building long-term careers. This case study showcases the apprenticeship journey of Lewis Body, an Apprentice Quantity Surveyor at Magnitude Quantity Surveyors, and highlights the impact of high-quality training, structured support, and real-world experience.

Reflecting on his apprenticeship journey, Lewis shares:

“My apprenticeship has had a significant impact on my career. It has given me hands-on experience, real-world training, and the confidence to apply what I learn directly in the workplace.”

Learner Overview

Lewis Body is currently completing his apprenticeship as a Quantity Surveyor at Magnitude Quantity Surveyors, a company operating within the high-end V.I.P residential sector. From the outset of his apprenticeship, Lewis has been embedded in live projects, allowing him to gain meaningful, hands-on experience alongside formal training.

As part of his role, Lewis supports a wide range of commercial and technical activities, including measuring materials and labour from drawings, assisting with cost estimates and budgets, supporting tendering and procurement processes, monitoring project costs, and contributing to contract administration. He also regularly visits site to review progress and works closely with contractors and project teams.

Reflecting on his role, Lewis explains:

“I collaborate with a team of professionals to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard, which allows me to develop both practical skills and professional knowledge.”

Apprenticeship Experience and Skills Development

Lewis’s apprenticeship has played a pivotal role in shaping his professional development. The programme has enabled him to build technical competence while developing confidence and professionalism in a real-world working environment.

Unlike traditional classroom-based learning, the apprenticeship has provided Lewis with direct exposure to industry-standard practices and expectations.

“My apprenticeship has had a significant impact on my career. It provided me with hands-on experience, real-world training, and exposure to industry standard practices that I could not have gained through classroom learning alone. The structured nature of the apprenticeship helped me build confidence in my abilities and allowed me to progress steadily within my role.”

Balancing Learning and Work

One of the key strengths of the apprenticeship programme for Lewis has been the balance between training and employment. The ability to directly apply learning to his day-to-day responsibilities has enhanced engagement and motivation.

“One of the aspects I particularly enjoy about my apprenticeship is the balance between learning and working. I can apply the skills I learn in training directly to my job, which makes the experience both meaningful and motivating.”

Lewis has also benefited from ongoing mentorship and support from experienced colleagues at his workplace, which has contributed significantly to his personal and professional growth.

“I also appreciate the mentorship and support from experienced colleagues, which has been invaluable in my personal and professional growth.”

The Value of Apprenticeships

Lewis strongly advocates for apprenticeships as an effective route into skilled professions. He highlights the combination of practical experience, formal qualifications, and paid employment as a key advantage.

“In my opinion, the benefits of apprenticeships are numerous. They provide practical experience, formal training, and opportunities for progression. Apprenticeships also help individuals gain qualifications while earning a wage, which can make career development more accessible. Furthermore, apprenticeships encourage a strong work ethic, problem solving skills, and industry specific knowledge.”

Advice for Future Apprentices

When asked what advice he would give to those considering an apprenticeship with LSP, Lewis emphasises the importance of engagement and proactive learning.

“For anyone considering an apprenticeship with LSP, my advice would be to embrace every opportunity to learn, ask questions, and actively seek feedback. The more effort you put into your apprenticeship, the more you will gain from the experience. It is a stepping stone to long term career success and offers exposure to opportunities you might not encounter elsewhere.”

Employer Impact

Lewis also recognises the value apprenticeships bring to employers, particularly in developing future talent aligned to business needs.

“Employers should offer apprenticeships because they help develop skilled, loyal, and motivated employees. Apprenticeships also allow companies to shape talent to meet their specific needs, foster innovation, and contribute to the growth of their sector. By investing in apprentices, employers are investing in the future of their business.”

Conclusion

Lewis’s journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can successfully bridge the gap between education and employment. Through structured training, workplace mentoring, and real-world experience, Lewis has developed the skills, confidence, and professional mindset required to progress within the quantity surveying profession.