Harry Vaughton - BSc (Hons) Construction Project Management
After leaving college at 18, Harry took a year out working in the construction industry and never looked back. A stint with a local demolition company sparked a passion for hands-on, community-focused projects, leading him to pursue a Construction Site Management apprenticeship with the University of Salford. Harry's hard work was ultimately recognised when he was named Construction & Surveying Apprentice of the Year 2026. We spoke to Harry to find out more about his commendable achievement.
We asked Harry...
Why did you choose to study an apprenticeship?
Having left college at 18 with no idea what the next step would be, I decided to take a year out, working full-time to give myself time to think it through. I realised the importance of being in a real-world work environment and the soft skills you learn along the way. The apprenticeship route seemed the most logical way to gain the educational background and work-environment experience.
What made you want to pursue Construction Site Management?
In my year out, I joined a local Demolition Company, Bradley Group, working as an admin in the office. I enjoyed working on tangible projects that would benefit local communities, even though I was only doing job costings. After six months, I was moved on-site to the Our Town Hall Project in Manchester and was amazed by the various construction activities underway.
What does your apprenticeship involve day to day?
A major advantage of my role is that no 2 days are the same at the site, which keeps me engaged and on my toes. A typical day starts with a site walkaround to ensure the site is a safe environment for people to work in. Site inductions will often follow. Supply chain coordination and progress meetings often occur throughout the day with my assigned packages.
I will regularly review construction activity on site, ensuring the works undertaken are carried out safely, in accordance with the RAMS, and to the required quality and specification. The day will often finish with a team meeting to close out any issues for the following day and a site walkaround to ensure the site is safe and secure for the night.
Looking back over your time on the apprenticeship so far, how have you found the whole experience?
The apprenticeship has been tough but extremely rewarding. Having to work 4 days a week and attend university lectures on 1 day means my free time is often used to complete my coursework and revise. However, I believe I am more confident in my career after going down the apprenticeship route. Being on site allows you to learn various building methods whilst applying the construction principles taught at university.
How would you describe the support that you've received from the University of Salford?
There are two types of support from the university: pastoral & educational. Both are equally important. Pastoral support comes from the Apprenticeship Coaches, who are there to provide person-specific guidance and support where required. The educational support comes from lecturers with extensive industry knowledge and experience. They provide as much support as necessary to those who want it.
What has been your proudest achievement in your apprenticeship to date?
My proudest achievement has been receiving the Construction & Surveying Apprentice of the Year Award 2026. Being nominated for the award by my senior managers and lecturers at the University was a recognition of the hard work and dedication I put into my studies and work.
What would you say to someone considering an apprenticeship?
Having gone down the apprentice route, it now seems daft that I would have considered any other option. It's not for everyone or for every industry, but it certainly has the potential to streamline your career.
Do you have any advice for future apprentices?
The best advice I can give is to get out of it what you put into it. No one will force you to take the time to carry out research and to work on your assignments, but the more time you put in, the more support the lecturers will want to give and the better you will do.
