Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit a development before my interview?
Yes, this is possible. It is always best to contact the local Sales Adviser and make them aware of your visit. That way, they can plan in some time to see you.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, you'll receive an acknowledgement explaining the process going forward from there. This will vary depending on the job you have applied for.
Where do I send my CV?
Please look at the jobs available on the ‘Search jobs’ page and follow the instructions for applying online.
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Do I get to choose where I work?
Let us know where you’d like to be based in your application. If you’re successful in getting a place on our programme, we try to place you at a site or office as close to your home address as possible.
Do you pay travel expenses for assessment centres?
Sadly we do not pay for travel or expense claims for you to attend our assessment days.
Do I get holidays?
You will be entitled to holiday pay. Your holidays per year are on each programme page and you will get bank holidays.
What qualities do Barratt look for in their applicants?
Please see each programme page which shows what we’re looking for.
Will I be notified if I’m not successful at any stage during the process?
Yes, we will make sure we keep in touch with you throughout the process.
Graduates
Do you need to have industry experience to apply?
Whilst industry experience is beneficial, we are more interested in your potential as a future leader. We will give you all the industry knowledge and experience you need through the programme.
What degrees disciplines do you accept?
We accept any degree discipline. Whilst it helps to have a relevant degree, our previous cohorts boast a wide variety of background experience and degree discipline from property & construction-related degrees to psychology, geography and business studies.
Can I apply for more than one role?
We ask that you apply only once, choosing the discipline you feel best suited to. During the ASPIRE programme, you’ll explore your talents, and we’ll help you find the most suitable pathway for you.
Can I apply if I do not have a visa to work in the UK?
Unfortunately we are unable to sponsor visa applications. If you require a visa to work in the UK you must obtain this independently and provide evidence of this visa before the start of the programme.
Which discipline is most relevant for architectural backgrounds?
Our Technical department houses our Designers, Technologists, Engineers and Architectural Technicians. However, previous graduates with degrees in Architecture have also gone on to become Site Managers and Project Managers within our Construction department. Your development is geared by you, and your choice of discipline will depend on what you want to achieve in your career in the industry.
Do I need to submit a portfolio if I apply for a role in the Technical department?
We do not request any form of portfolio, or examples of previous work undertaken at university or in other periods of work experiences.
Is this role just for recent graduates?
There is no age limit for applying to the ASPIRE programme. We pride ourselves inclusion and diversity, and encourage applications from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances.
Will I be based in one location or am I expected to move around the country?
You’ll be offered a place in one of our divisions, based geographically across the country, or in our Group Support Centre. For more information on our divisions, visit our locations page.
How do rotations work geographically?
The first year rotational period takes place within the geographical boundaries of your chosen division. Except for time spent on site during your Construction and Sales rotations, and for travel to and from some training days, you will be based in the head office of the division or working from home.
What courses will I attend?
Continual improvement is high on the agenda at Barratt. We want graduates who join us now to enjoy diverse career opportunities within our organisation in the future. So we are keen to equip you with the broader management and people skills you need to grow professionally. This isn’t simply about gaining technical knowledge or learning how our organisation operates. It is about taking practical measures to develop the softer skills such as networking, team working, relationship building, creative problem solving, influencing and persuading, as well as managing change.
Do you get the opportunity to do charity work?
Barratt Developments partake in a variety of charitable projects across the country. We fundraise all year round for national and local causes, and organise our own charity events both at Group and Divisional levels in which you can get involved.
Will you sponsor my professional qualifications?
We fully fund and support our graduates to attain further relevant qualifications or professional accreditation. The most popular are RICS, RTPI, CIOB, CIMA and ACA.
Do rotations count towards my RICS/RTPI/CIOB chartership?
All work that directly influences your chosen pathway during your rotations can be counted toward chartership. Outside of the rotational period, you can utilise all project work towards the chartership.
What happens at the end of the programme?
Our programmes are structured with clear milestones built into your Personal Development Plan. So each step of the way, you will be able to see exactly how far you’ve come and exactly what else you need to achieve in the future. When you’ve successfully completed your programme, you will join your chosen department and begin your first role.
How can I expect my career to progress?
We’re an ageing workforce and one of our key reasons for creating this programme is to fast-track people into leadership roles. Many of our previous graduates have progressed into roles such as Managing Director, Technical Director, Sales Director, Senior Land Manager, Contracts Manager, Group Surveying Manager and Group Resourcing Manager to name a few.
How has Covid-19 affected the role?
Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the way we work as a business, we are proud to continue to recruit graduates and run the programme effectively. During periods of lockdown, adjustments have been made to the programme. Many of our employees continue to work from home, and learning sessions can be delivered virtually.
What is the starting salary?
As well as the ultimate head start in a competitive industry and dedication to helping you achieve your ambitions, we pay well and offer a generous, flexible reward package. Your starting salary will range from £25,000 - £29,000 depending where in the country you are based.
Will I receive feedback on my application?
We will provide regular updates at each stage of the application process. You can request more specific feedback if you have taken part in the video interview, virtual assessment centre or final interview stages of the process.
Apprentices
Will I get paid?
Yes, we offer a very competitive salary for all of our Apprentices and Trainees. For Trade Apprentices, we pay well in excess of the National Apprentice Minimum wage rates. For Commercial & Technical Apprentices and Trainees, your salary will be dependent on your experience, location and prior qualifications.
Will I receive a recognised qualification?
Yes, your apprenticeship is a high quality Standard (in England) or Framework (in Wales and Scotland) and, providing you successfully complete all assessments, leads to qualifications that are recognised throughout the construction industry. If you do not already have a qualification in English and Maths you will also study for a Functional Skills qualification.
Do I have to arrange my own college place?
No, we will arrange this for you.
Do I need to provide my own equipment?
No, Your safety is very important to us so we will provide you with the personal protective equipment you need to carry out your job safely. In addition you will be provided with branded work wear and a comprehensive toolkit to get you started in your trade.
Do I need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card?
Everyone who works on one of our sites needs to be trained in health and safety and obtain a CSCS card. Whilst you are waiting to join us, please research and revise for the appropriate health and safety test, this can be found here. If successful in gaining an Apprenticeship with us, we will help you apply for your card at no cost to yourself.
What time of year do we start?
In England our apprenticeship start dates are spread throughout the year, in Scotland and Wales starts are scheduled for the end of the summer.
On the trade residential course, who will arrange my accommodation and travel?
We will arrange your rail travel to and from Leicester, all daily local transport, accommodation and meals.
On the trade residential course, where will my accommodation be and will I be with someone my own age?
Your accommodation will be close to the college in a family home. We offer Apprenticeships to all ages and our Apprentices range in age from 16 to over 30 and your group (cohort) will have a mix of ages. However, we never mix under 18 and 18+ Apprentices in the same accommodation.
I live near the college, can I go home each night and still join the trade residential course?
If you live within a reasonable commuting distance of the college you may return home daily, although you will be responsible for turning up on time. Travel costs will be reimbursed.
What if I have personal problems whilst I am away on the trade residential course?
We recognise that life is sometimes complex and you may need extra support whilst away from home. The college has a Pastoral Support team who will be introduced to you on your first day and they will provide any additional support you need. Barratt will also have team members available locally to support you during your weeks away at college. Barratt also have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to help you deal with events and issues in your everyday work and personal life.
On the trade residential course, what are the college hours?
Normal college hours are 9:00am to 5:30pm with an hour for lunch plus a 15 minute break each morning and afternoon. To allow travel time, Monday classes start later and on Friday they end earlier.
On the trade residential course, how will I get to the college?
Travel from home on a Monday and Friday is normally by train. We do not encourage driving and anything over two hours would be considered as excessive. Daily transport to and from your accommodation is arranged by the college.
I already have my Level 2 Diploma, can I apply?
We are sorry but as our apprenticeship programme in England and Scotland starts at Level 2 we are unable to accept your application. In Wales you may be able to join our programme at Level 3. You can find our entry requirements for England, Scotland and Wales under our programme information.
Higher & Degree Apprentices
How long is the recruitment process?
The recruitment process opens in February with employment to commence any time from October. The study element of the apprenticeship will start in the following January.
How will I be tested during the recruitment process?
You will be asked to take an online questionnaire, take part in a video interview and complete a university application, followed by a final interview. If you are offered a job, you will complete a series of university eligibility activities, which include an assessment of your current knowledge, skills and behaviour, a functional skills review and a conversation with a Work-Based Learning Coach.
What qualifications do I need?
To qualify for a Higher Apprenticeship in Construction, Quantity Surveying or Technical, you’ll need one of the following:
- One A-Level and four GCSEs (C or above, or Grade 4-9) including Maths and English
- BTEC National Qualification
- Advanced Diploma in Construction or Built Environment
- Other access or foundation courses
Those completing the Higher Apprenticeship will automatically be enrolled onto the Degree Apprenticeship following completion. However, if you possess one of the following then you may be able to join the Degree Apprenticeship programme in Construction, Quantity Surveying or Technical directly:
- A Cert HE in a Construction related subject
- HNC in Construction or equivalent qualifications
- Access – at least 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 from a relevant Open College Network accredited course
To qualify for the Real Estate Degree Apprenticeship, you’ll need the following:
- GCSEs (grade C or above or grades 4-9) in Maths, English and a science subject plus:
- 112 UCAS points from at least two A levels or equivalent BTEC National qualifications. For example:
- BBC at A Level
- DMM in BTEC Extended Diploma
- A combination of qualifications, which may include AS Levels, EPQ and general studies
More experienced entrants without formal qualifications will be considered on merit, accounting for factors such as work experience, previous qualifications or skills gained from the Armed Forces.
What experience do I need?
It is not essential that you have experience working in the construction industry. The most important thing you can bring to our business is your personality. You will need to be able to work in a diverse environment, bring skills and attributes from a whole host of backgrounds and also be passionate about customers and people.
What is the title of the qualification and is it nationally recognised?
All of our apprenticeships award industry-recognised qualifications:
Construction
- Cert HE Professional Practice in Residential Development and Construction for completion of our Higher Apprenticeship and
- BSc (Hons) Professional Practice in Residential Development and Construction for completion of our Degree Apprenticeship
Quantity Surveying
- Cert HE Professional Practice in Residential Development and Quantity Surveying for completion of our Higher Apprenticeship and
- BSc (Hons) Professional Practice in Residential Development and Quantity Surveying for completion of our Degree Apprenticeship
Technical
- Cert HE Professional Practice in Technical Design and Management for completion of our Higher Apprenticeship and
- BSc (Hons) Professional Practice in Technical Design and Management for completion of our Degree Apprenticeship
Real Estate
- BSc (Hons) Professional Practice in Residential Real Estate
What will my job role be?
You will join the business as a Trainee Assistant Site Manager, Trainee Quantity Surveyor, Technical Trainee or Trainee Land Buyer. Promotion in the role is based on your performance on the job, and so even before you’ve completed your degree, we’d expect you to have progressed into further roles.
What happens during the ‘block week’ at Sheffield Hallam University on the Higher and Degree Apprenticeships?
During your block week, you will complete activities, lectures and assignments with your peers on the programme from the business. This allows you to reflect, share good practice and draw upon each other’s experiences. Within the block weeks, you will also sit exams. The delivery will be made up of a blend of classroom studies at Sheffield Hallam University, where you will be put up in accommodation nearby, and online learning.
What support is available?
Within the division you work in, your own personal mentor will support you. The role of the mentor is to conduct quarterly reviews with you and discuss both your progress at university and within your role. Sheffield Hallam University appoint a Course Leader and Work-Based Learning Coach who will work with Barratt to ensure your progress is tracked and any additional support needs are identified. You must inform us if you require any additional learning support as this is also offered through the university. Don’t forget, you also have peer support from colleagues.
How much time will I need to set for work outside of university?
The time you require to complete set assignments will be down to you as an individual. There are assignments that need to be completed in your own time. You will need to be self-motivated to undertake wider reading in order to explore what you have learned during your block weeks in more depth. It's up to you to set your own study schedule to ensure you are ready to submit your coursework or take exams.
In addition to your block weeks, you will have the opportunity to get involved with a variety of learning activities related to your job role, outside of your normal day-to-day responsibilities.
How much will the Degree cost me?
The course is fully funded and you will not be required to contribute to the cost of your qualification.
As a comparison, if you were to take the traditional route and study for a degree on a full-time university course, the fees would cost you in the region of £27,000.
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Where should I look to see what jobs are available?
Please visit the ‘Search jobs’ page to find out about our current opportunities.
How often are the vacancies updated?
Vacancies are updated on a daily basis.
Do all applications have to be made online?
Yes, all of our vacancies are advertised on our ‘Search jobs’ page, and the application process is online.
I cannot find any current vacancies that I would like to apply for, how do I register my interest?
You'll be able to register your interest and we will email you when a position becomes available that matches your search. Please follow the instructions at our ‘Search jobs’ page.
Do I need to disclose all criminal convictions?
You only need to disclose if you have any criminal offences which are not spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
What is meant by 'an unspent conviction'?
If you have ever been convicted of an offence for which a sentence of more than two years was imposed (regardless of the amount of time you have actually spent in prison) then this conviction can never become spent.
When will I be notified of the outcome of the application?
You will usually be notified seven days after the vacancy's expiry date has passed. Some vacancies may include further selection stages.
I applied for a job recently; do I have to go through the application process again?
If you have previously been unsuccessful and want to apply for a different role, you will need to apply afresh as the questions we ask about yourself and your past experiences are relative to each individual role.
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When can I apply?
The recruitment process opens in March with employment to commence before October each year. If your release is not until after this time, you can register your interest online and you will be sent a note as soon as the next recruitment campaign opens.
How will I be tested during the recruitment process?
You will be asked to complete an online questionnaire and take part in a telephone interview. The final stage is a face-to-face interview at your local office.
Will I be notified if I am not successful at any stage during the process?
Yes, we will make sure we keep in touch with you throughout the process.
What qualifications and experience do I need?
You do not need any formal qualifications to join this programme. Instead we are looking for you to demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to work in diverse environments, from your time in the Armed Forces. We are keen to see individuals who are willing to learn in order to develop a new career in the business and in the construction industry.
Do I get to choose where I work?
Let us know where you’d like to be based in your application. We will then match your location to our current vacancies. If you’re successful in getting a place on our programme, we’ll try to place you at a site or office as close to your home address as possible.
What will my job role be?
You will start the programme in a full time role as a Trainee Assistant Site Manager, with the aim of becoming an Assistant Site Manager, following the successful completion of the 12-month programme.
What training will I receive?
You will receive all the training you require to successfully manage a site. This includes on-site learning, Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) courses, attendance at development modules, an NVQ Level 4 in Construction Site Supervision and the opportunity to take part in a Simulation Centre.
What happens at the end of the 12-month programme?
At the end of the 12-month programme (if not before), we’d expect you to become a fully qualified Assistant Site Manager, taking on more responsibility. From there, the future is yours. That could be continuing on-site, progressing to a Site Manager role, or into a Contracts Manager, Project Manager or Construction Director role.