Charlie Bowyer, Graduate Planner, 24
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2024, we’re sitting down for a chat with Charlie.
Charlie joined us in May 2022 as a graduate planner, after completing his undergraduate degree in ‘Planning and Property Development’ at Oxford Brookes University. Charlie is continuing his studies and working towards a Master’s in ‘Spatial Planning’ with the ambition to become a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
How did you first hear about the apprenticeship?
I attended the Oxford Brookes Careers Fair towards the end of 2021. It was there that I started talking to the Edgars team, who explained the various options available to me in both developing academically and professionally in a cohesive way.
I found it beneficial to discuss this in person, which provided ample opportunity to ask various questions about the apprenticeship route and understand more about Edgars and the projects the team works on.
What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I was eager to continue my academic studies. However, I didn’t want to spend another year in a university environment full time. The apprenticeship route allowed me to progress without incurring additional tuition fees or student loans.
How have you found being an apprentice at Edgars?
A major draw in choosing the apprenticeship route was that Edgars had an impressive track record in supporting apprentices throughout their apprenticeship programme. The myriad of projects that you get to work here on keeps the daily tasks interesting and engaging.
20 months on, do you feel like an apprenticeship was still the right choice?
It was definitely the right choice for me. Besides the academic and professional growth, I have experienced, the apprenticeship route allowed me to support myself financially. Moving from a relatively rural environment down in the south of England to a market town in West Oxfordshire would have been very difficult to achieve when considering alternative career paths.
What advice would you give someone considering an apprenticeship?
I won’t lie, you must be prepared to work hard. There will be a lot of administrative tasks involved when completing the apprenticeship route. However, if you plan ahead and choose a company like Edgars, you will experience bundles of encouragement and support to assist you throughout the process.
Thank you, Charlie, and good luck with the rest of your apprenticeship!
For information on joining us as an apprentice, get in touch via careers@edgarslimited.co.uk