Sophie Stuart: from student to surveyor

Sophie Stuart, former Pendleton Sixth Form College student, has Career Ready to thank for her move from student to surveyor as she bags a trainee surveyor position at HB Villages following an internship with the scheme.

Sophie said: “I first came to HB Villages in summer 2016 for an internship I got through the Career Ready Programme.

“I completed a 4-week internship with the company and then they asked if I wanted to stay longer – so I did for another 2 weeks. At the end of the 6-weeks they asked me if I would like to work there full-time once I had finished my A levels. I was completely overwhelmed and shocked, of course I said yes!

“They saw potential in me and had found me to be a great help. After spending 6-weeks there, I had realised this could quite possibly be the career path for me.”

Sophie started in her new role with the company immediately after leaving college, and what’s more, HBV offered to pay for her Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredited qualification, which she is currently undertaking at the University of Salford.

“They also offered to fund my university course so that I had the relevant qualifications for my job.

“So, I am currently studying a 3-year accelerated part-time degree in property and real estate. I attend lectures every Tuesday and am in the office every other day of the working week.

“It is quite challenging trying to balance a degree as well as a full-time job but I know that it will be well worth it when I graduate as I already feel like I am miles ahead of my peers.”

HBV, based in Altrincham, is a property development company who supply high quality, specialist supported housing in community settings across the UK.

Sophie continued: “I have been working here for nearly 5-months now as a trainee surveyor and I am absolutely loving it. Every day I am learning something new and surprising myself with what I am capable of. 

“This year I am looking to work more independently and be able to see my own projects from start to finish. I also plan to start my APC (Assessment of Professional Competence) so that I can become chartered by the time I am 23 – which will be a real achievement!”