NAW Case Study - Harvey Weetch
National Apprenticeship Case Study: Building Technical Expertise Through Apprenticeships
Introduction
Apprenticeships provide an effective pathway for young people to enter specialist technical roles, offering hands-on experience, structured learning, and a clear route to professional qualification. This case study explores the apprenticeship journey of Harvey Weetch, an Apprentice Survey Technician at GeoDefinition Ltd, and demonstrates how work-based learning can transform career direction, confidence, and future ambition.
Overview
Harvey is currently completing his apprenticeship as a Survey Technician at GeoDefinition Ltd, where he specialises in geotechnical geophysics. From an early stage in his programme, Harvey has been actively involved in site-based and technical work, allowing him to develop strong practical skills alongside his academic learning.
On a day-to-day basis, Harvey is responsible for collecting geotechnical and geophysical data on site, processing and preparing that data for reports issued to clients, and ensuring all equipment is maintained, clean, and ready for future site work. This variety of responsibilities has enabled him to gain a broad understanding of surveying operations and construction processes.
“Day to day I collect data from sites and process that data ready for reports to be sent to the client. I also maintain equipment, making sure everything is tidy, clean, and ready for its next on-site shift.”
Apprenticeship Impact and Skills Development
Harvey’s apprenticeship has had a profound impact on both his professional development and personal confidence. Prior to starting the programme, he was uncertain about his future career path and felt that a traditional university route was not right for him.
“My apprenticeship has impacted my career massively, turning me from a kid in college not sure on what he wanted to do, to finding a field in which I feel massively comfortable and excited to be in.”
Through structured training and consistent workplace experience, Harvey has developed a strong understanding of surveying, geotechnical investigation, and the wider construction industry. His apprenticeship has also supported his progression towards formal qualification, providing clarity and direction in his career.
“My apprenticeship has taught me a multitude of things in the industry and really helps my understanding with surveying and construction as a whole, and takes me one step closer to qualification.”
Finding the Right Pathway
Harvey’s journey into an apprenticeship was shaped by practical exposure. While attending several apprenticeship conferences, he struggled to find a role that felt right until he participated in a survey technician taster day.
“I always knew ever since I was in school that University was never for me, so I never really knew what I wanted to do with my life. I went to a load of apprenticeship conferences but never found the one for me. That was until I went on a taster day on a survey and absolutely loved it. The following month I was enrolled in an apprenticeship as a survey technician and found what I really enjoy doing.”
This experience highlights the importance of employer engagement, taster opportunities, and clear progression routes in helping young people make informed career decisions.
The Value of Apprenticeships
Harvey is a strong advocate for apprenticeships and believes they offer a powerful alternative to traditional education routes.
“In my opinion apprenticeships are the way of the future. They really help young people mature into the working world, gain valuable experience, and benefit from the earn-and-learn scheme.”
His achievements during the programme reflect this impact, including being a Young Surveyor of the Year finalist at the 2025 Building the Future Awards, a milestone he attributes to the confidence and capability gained through his apprenticeship.
Advice for Future Apprentices
For anyone considering an apprenticeship with LSP, Harvey’s advice is simple and wholehearted.
“If someone who was considering an apprenticeship with LSP and asked me for advice, I would say go for it. It has massively changed my life, from being so unsure of my future to making it to the final of the young surveyor of the year award and being so happy with myself and the decisions I made and continue to make day after day.”
Employer Perspective
Harvey also highlights the value apprentices bring to employers, particularly in developing capable, work-ready professionals.
“In my opinion, employers should offer apprenticeships to young people as not only will they come away with knowledge of the job and the field they are in, but they also gain a huge amount of experience, making them a huge benefit to employers.”
Conclusion
Harvey’s apprenticeship journey demonstrates how structured training, employer support, and real-world experience can unlock potential and create clear career pathways. His fantastic progression highlights the long-term value of apprenticeships for individuals, employers, and the wider construction and surveying sectors.