Finley Norman - BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
We spoke to Finley Norman, a Year 3 Quantity Surveying Degree Apprentice at Mace Consult Limited, to find out how balancing live project work with academic study has accelerated his professional development and set him firmly on the path to becoming a Chartered Quantity Surveyor.
We asked Finley...
Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying?
I chose to study an apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying because it offered the best combination of academic learning and real‑world experience. The opportunity to apply what I learn at university directly into live construction projects and gain project experience through the university.
This appealed to me far more than a traditional full‑time degree. Quantity surveying also aligned well with my strengths in commercial awareness, problem‑solving, and working within structured processes, while offering clear long‑term career progression through professional accreditation.
Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?
Overall, I have found the apprenticeship experience extremely positive and rewarding. Balancing work and study has been challenging at times, but it has significantly accelerated my professional development.
Working on live projects alongside experienced professionals has helped me gain confidence, technical competence, and a strong understanding of how theory translates into practice within the construction industry.
How would you describe the support that you’ve received from the University of Salford?
Lecturers are approachable and knowledgeable, and the course content is clearly aligned with industry practice and professional standards, such as those set by RICS. I have also received effective support through a Reasonable Adjustment Plan (RAP), which has included access to additional time for assessments and appropriate software to support my learning. Alongside this, academic support, online resources, and structured module delivery have all helped me manage the demands of studying while working full-time.
What has been your proudest achievement in your apprenticeship to date?
My proudest achievement has been contributing meaningfully to large‑scale projects across the public and private sectors, including supporting cost planning, procurement, and commercial reporting on high‑value schemes. Particularly progressing from supporting tasks to taking responsibility for producing cost plans, tender documentation, and project commentary that has been issued to clients.
Can you share an example of when you felt included, supported or valued during your apprenticeship?
I have felt particularly included and supported when my line manager and the wider project team actively involve me in live project discussions rather than limiting my role to administrative tasks. I was encouraged to contribute my views during cost reviews and client meetings, and time was taken to explain decisions and the commercial reasoning behind them.
This helped me feel that my input was valued, while also supporting my technical development and confidence. Additionally, flexibility was demonstrated in university commitments, reflecting a genuine understanding of the dual demands of work and study.
If you ever needed extra help, how easy was it to get the support you needed, and what happened?
Whenever I have needed additional support, it has been easy to access. Both my employer and the university have been responsive, whether through line management guidance, mentoring from senior colleagues, or academic support from lecturers. Clear communication channels meant issues were addressed constructively.
Since starting your apprenticeship, have you progressed into a new role or taken on additional responsibilities?
Since starting the apprenticeship, I have taken on greater responsibility in my role, progressing to a Senior Apprentice position and becoming more involved in cost management, procurement, and commercial assurance. Structured academic learning, combined with on‑the‑job exposure to industry standards such as NRM, NEC and JCT contracts, directly supported this progression.
Can you share an experience from your apprenticeship that has made the biggest difference to your career development?
Working on major projects has had the biggest impact on my career development. Being involved in cost planning and procurement for high‑value schemes reinforced my goal of becoming a Chartered Quantity Surveyor and confirmed my interest in working on complex, commercially driven projects within a consultancy environment.
During your apprenticeship, have you been encouraged to take part in any wider development activities?
I have been actively encouraged to take part in wider development activities. These have included internal training sessions, APC and professional development workshops, volunteering initiatives, employer‑led learning events, and external CPD sessions such as Passivhaus training. These opportunities have supported both my technical development and wider professional skills.
