Course overview

Quantity Surveying for England Occupational Standard: Construction Quantity Surveying Technician Apprenticeship City of Bristol College

This is a dynamic programme designed to equip aspiring Construction Quantity Surveying Technicians with the essential knowledge, skills and competencies to thrive in the built environment sector.

Covering fundamental units such as:

– Construction Design Project (Pearson-set)
– The Construction Environment
– Digital Applications for Construction Information
– Measurement & Estimating
– Tender & Procurement
– Construction Economics & Sustainability
– Quantity Surveying Practice
– Law & Legal Frameworks in Quantity Surveying

This qualification bridges theoretical principles with real-world application. Through practical learning and industry-aligned projects, students develop core quantity surveying skills including cost estimation, procurement strategies, contract administration, sustainable construction economics and digital construction applications.

The programme fosters critical thinking, problem-solving and commercial awareness – key attributes sought by employers in the ever-evolving construction industry.

This qualification is an excellent stepping stone for individuals aiming to contribute to the future of sustainable and cost-effective construction, making a lasting impact on the built environment sector.

Please note that only candidates who are currently working in relevant employment can make an enquiry for the Quantity Surveying apprenticeship.

Start Your Apprenticeship Journey with City of Bristol College 

Start your apprenticeship journey with City of Bristol College

Additional information

Who is this course for?

This is for people looking to enhance their career in quantity surveying, returning to education or those wanting to upskill.

What you'll learn

For this apprenticeship route, the course will cover the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) and you must be employed before you can apply under this route. For the part-time route, the course will cover requirements for quantity surveying competency in the following areas:

Core Learning units:

Unit 1: Construction Design Project (Pearson-set)
Unit 4: The Construction Environment
Unit 6: Digital Applications for Construction Information
Unit 10: Measurement & Estimating
Unit 12: Tender & Procurement
Unit 23: Construction Economics & Sustainability
Unit 25: Quantity Surveying Practice
Unit 27: Law & Legal Frameworks in Quantity Surveying

Course entry requirements

Prospective applicants are expected to meet specific entry requirements to ensure a solid foundation for success in the programme.

Eligibility criteria include holding at least one of the following qualifications or experiences:

1. BTEC Level 3 qualification in Construction and built environment or T Levels in design, surveying and planning for Built Environment or related BTEC Level 3 construction or engineering programmes
2. GCE Advanced Level profile –  A strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile should be supported by GCSE grades at A* to C (or equivalent) and/or 9 to 4 (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English.
3. Other related Level 3 qualifications – Applicants with qualifications beyond BTEC Level 3 or GCE Advanced Level will also be considered.
4. Access to Higher Education Diploma – Applicants with a relevant diploma from an approved further education institution are eligible.
5. Relevant work experience – Applicants with industry experience will be considered, particularly those returning to education. However, a Level 2 qualification in Maths and English is normally expected. Applicants with prior certificated or experiential learning may be eligible for credit transfer, with a maximum of 120 credits at Level 4.

All applicants will undergo an interview process before a final decision is made. Additionally, English language proficiency is a requirement. Non-native English speakers who have not completed their final two years of schooling in English must demonstrate language capability at a standard equivalent to:

– Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Level B2
– PTE Academic 51 or – IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum reading and writing score of 5.5)

This ensures that each applicant can effectively engage in learning and assessment at the relevant level in English, contributing to a successful academic journey in quantity surveying.

How is the course delivered and assessed?

We recognise the diversity in learning styles and aim to cater to individual preferences through a variety of teaching techniques. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting your academic journey, fostering engagement and enhancing your employability skills. You can expect a dynamic learning environment, where group work, pair activities, action research, discussions, presentations and hands-on building projects are integrated into the curriculum.

Our delivery methods encompass a combination of lectures, online learning, practical sessions and CPD sessions with RICS, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.

A significant aspect of your assessment includes the opportunity to implement your own building and design projects within several modules. To further enrich your learning experience, we offer tutorial sessions, seminars, site visits and guest speakers to provide insights into new and exciting concepts in the field. With relatively small class sizes, you will benefit from full interaction and meaningful discussions within the group.

Your weekly schedule will include approximately six hours of contact time, involving five hours of lectures and one hour of seminars or tutorial time, as well as 17.5 hours per session for WEX activities.

During independent study periods, you will engage in activities such as reading journal articles, working on projects and preparing coursework. Formative assessments throughout each unit offer developmental feedback, while summative assessments at the end of each unit contribute to your overall grade.

We understand the importance of academic and pastoral support. Your Personal Tutor, support is available from the Programme Coordinator, Unit Leaders, and central student services. Our holistic approach to student progression includes an induction programme, scheduled tutorials, online resources, personal development planning sessions and support for students with additional learning needs.

We are committed to facilitating your academic journey, providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment where you can thrive and succeed in the field of Civil Engineering.

Future career and study opportunities

Graduates of this HNC have multiple progression pathways, with opportunities to advance into employment as assistant quantity surveyors, estimators, or procurement officers, or continue their academic journey onto a BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) or a university degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related fields.

Many also choose a blended approach—combining work and study to gain industry experience while furthering their education.

Additional costs

In September, course fee details will be finalised and enrolment will open. 

As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, you may likely need to pay for travel and stationery. Many courses offer learning opportunities that you may need to pay for. This may include things like study visits and visiting speakers. We will let you know in advance if there will be additional costs.

If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary

What next?

Where to find us