By Kelly (mum) & Molly (current apprentice and previous full-time student)
Finding the Right Path
Molly: When I was finishing school, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew A-levels weren’t for me. I went to a Sixth Form open day, and they explained how much revision would be involved. They also didn’t seem keen on students having part-time jobs, which I already had. I wasn’t sure about going to university either, which seemed to be the expected route for most students. That’s when I started looking at other options.
Kelly: As a parent, I wanted Molly to have a clear career path, and I wasn’t convinced A-levels would provide that. We visited Sixth Form, and it was so busy, packed with students, and still felt very much like school. But when we visited Leeds College of Building, it was completely different—relaxed, friendly, and career-focused. Molly felt it was the right environment for her, and it gave me reassurance as a parent that she was making a positive step toward a career.
Discovering Quantity Surveying
Molly: I originally wanted to be in the police, but due to my hearing, that wasn’t an option. That left me unsure of what to do next. My parents suggested looking at Leeds College of Building, so we went to an open day. That’s where we met Nikki McCarthy, a Curriculum Manager, who talked to me about what I enjoyed in school. I told her I loved maths but wasn’t a fan of science, and she suggested Quantity Surveying. Before that, I hadn’t even heard of the role! It turns out a lot of people don’t—it’s one of those careers people tend to fall into. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
The Transition from School to College
Molly: Moving from school to college was a big change. My school was quite strict, with lots of rules, so I expected college to be the same. But it wasn’t. The tutors were so approachable, and students were on first-name terms with them, which was a shock at first! The whole atmosphere was so much more relaxed and supportive.
Kelly: The biggest surprise for me was the lack of support from Molly’s school when she decided not to stay on for A-levels. Because she had strong grades, they tried to dissuade her from choosing construction. But I knew she needed a path with a clear direction, and the college offered that.
Why Open Days Matter
Molly: Attending an open day really helped me make my decision, and later, when I became a Student Ambassador, I saw how much it helped others too. Talking to tutors and students gave me a real insight into what studying here would be like. I’d definitely recommend attending one if you’re unsure.
Kelly: Open days were so valuable for us as parents too. Just being able to see the college, meet the tutors, and understand the learning environment was so reassuring. The enthusiasm of the staff was incredible, and after our conversation with Nikki, Molly was completely certain this was the right place for her. If you’re a parent wondering whether this is the right path for your child, an open day will give you that confidence.
“She’s had incredible support, made great friends, and landed an amazing job thanks to the college”
Opportunities in Construction
Kelly: There’s a common misconception that construction careers are limited, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’d recommend parents do their own research and encourage their child to be proactive. Molly asked for help securing placements, and the college’s staff were fantastic at connecting her with employers. There’s a whole support system in place, from Employability Officers to tutors and progress coaches, all dedicated to helping students succeed.
Molly: I was never worried about construction being a male-dominated industry, and I’ve never felt out of place. The college has female-focused groups, and I’ve met so many women in the industry. In my team at JN Bentley, four out of twelve Quantity Surveyors are women, and my design manager is female. There’s definitely a place for women in construction!
From Full-Time Study to Apprenticeship
Molly: Moving from a full-time course to a Level 4 apprenticeship was made really easy by the college. They supported us early on, asking what route we were considering and providing guidance on applications and interviews. The careers team checked in throughout the process, and we even had former students who had gone through the apprenticeship route come in to share their experiences.
Kelly: We recently went through the application process again with my son Daniel, who is set to start at the college in September. The process was so simple—find the course online, click ‘Apply Now,’ and fill in a personal statement. The staff were incredibly supportive, reassuring us that even if he doesn’t get the grades he wants, there are still options. That was a huge relief as a parent.
A Parent’s Perspective: The Best Decision We Made
Kelly: The biggest positive from all of this? Seeing Molly happy and thriving in a career she loves. She’s had incredible support, made great friends, and landed an amazing job thanks to the college. At one point, she was offered two apprenticeships and was able to discuss the options with her tutors to make the best decision.
Advice for Parents and Students Considering Leeds College of Building
Kelly: If you’re a parent feeling uncertain about your child choosing college or construction, my biggest advice is—go to an open day. Ask questions, get a feel for the place, and involve your child in the decision-making process. There’s so much support available, both for students and parents.
Molly: And if you’re a student thinking about applying—just go for it! Whether you want to study full-time or look for an apprenticeship later, the college will help guide you every step of the way. It’s a great place to be, and the opportunities in construction are far bigger than you might expect.
