NAW Case Study - Abigail Mortiboys
Apprenticeship Case Study: Building a Career in Commercial Construction
Introduction
Apprenticeships continue to play a crucial role in developing skilled professionals within the construction industry, offering learners the opportunity to gain real-world experience while working towards recognised qualifications. By combining practical learning with structured training, apprenticeships support long-term career development and help employers build capable, motivated teams.
This case study highlights the experience of Abigail Mortiboys, a Commercial Trainee at Vistry Group, whose apprenticeship is providing a strong foundation for a future career in quantity surveying.
Gaining Insight Through Real-World Experience
As a Commercial Trainee, Abigail’s role offers continuous learning and exposure to the realities of the construction industry. No two days are the same, and each brings new responsibilities and opportunities to develop professionally.
“No two days in my role are ever the same. Each day presents new learning opportunities, whether that is managing payments, liaising with subcontractors, or attending meetings that give me real insight into how commercial decisions are made on live construction projects.”
This hands-on experience has allowed Abigail to gain a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved in a quantity surveying role.
“This exposure has been invaluable in helping me understand the realities of the industry and the responsibilities of a quantity surveyor.”
Earning, Learning, and Building Toward the Future
A key benefit of Abigail’s apprenticeship is the ability to earn while learning, while working towards a clear long-term career goal.
“This apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to earn while I learn, allowing me to gain hands-on experience as I work towards a clear long-term goal: becoming a chartered surveyor.”
She values the balance between practical experience and formal qualification, which allows theory to be applied directly to live projects.
“What I value most is the balance between practical, day-to-day learning and gaining a recognised qualification that demonstrates my competence and commitment to the profession. Unlike more traditional academic routes, this pathway allows me to apply theory directly to real projects, building confidence, skills, and professional awareness from the very beginning of my career.”
This approach has helped Abigail build confidence, professional awareness, and industry-relevant skills from the very beginning of her career.
The Value of Apprenticeships in Quantity Surveying
Abigail strongly believes that apprenticeships provide a depth of learning that cannot be achieved through classroom-based study alone.
“I strongly believe that the key benefit of an apprenticeship is the ability to learn the full scope of a quantity surveyor’s role in a real working environment, while simultaneously gaining the qualifications needed to progress. The experience gained on the job cannot be replicated in a classroom alone.”
This combination of experience and education equips apprentices with the skills and understanding needed to progress confidently within the construction sector.
Advice for Future Apprentices
Abigail is highly positive about the support she has received from her training provider and encourages others to consider the same route.
“For anyone considering an apprenticeship with LSP, I would encourage you to take the opportunity without hesitation. The level of support provided is exceptional.”
She highlights the wide-ranging support available beyond academic learning.
“From academic guidance to enrichment activities beyond the classroom, they invest significant time and effort to ensure every learner reaches their full potential and achieves the best possible outcomes.”
Why Employers Should Invest in Apprenticeships
From Abigail’s perspective, apprenticeships deliver long-term benefits for employers as well as learners.
“Employers should continue to invest in apprenticeships because they develop skilled, motivated professionals who understand the industry from the ground up.”
She believes apprenticeships strengthen the sector by supporting progression, capability, and sustainable workforce development.
Conclusion
For Abigail, her apprenticeship represents far more than a route into employment.
“This apprenticeship has not just been a route into employment; it has been the foundation of a long-term, rewarding career in construction.”
Her journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can combine education, experience, and professional development to create confident, capable future surveyors - benefiting learners, employers, and the wider construction industry alike.