Rhiannon Stone

Why did you choose to come to Petroc?
I chose to attend Petroc due to the location of the college and the one day per week attendance.

What made you pick this particular course?
The department staff took a lot of time to run through the options of courses with me, helping to explain what the curriculum would cover and the level of commitment needed to succeed on the course.

What have been the highlights so far?
I have thoroughly enjoyed the ‘design principles’ unit, this has allowed me to use my passion for sustainability and renewable energy sources and to be completely creative designing my own development and allowing my imagination free reign.
The unit on ethics certainly was an eye opener – and led to many interesting debates within our classroom!
I think my main highlight has been the employment opportunity that being on the course has led to. TCi construction works approached the college whilst recruiting for a trainee role, I was recommended and taken on following a successful application and interview. I now work as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor, commercially managing several projects ranging from the restoration of a Grade II listed building to working at Hinkley Point C, each running to values in the £millions! It has been an amazing experience, which would not have happened if I was not on the course and without the support of my lecturer.

What do you most enjoy about studying at Petroc?
The staff are the absolute highlight of the course, their passion and specialist knowledge is clearly evident in their teaching and really brings the subject to life.

Are you undertaking any work experience throughout your studies?
My permanent role at TCi is as a direct result of being on the course. It has enabled me to work alongside my studies, applying my learning directly in the field. The experience has been invaluable in understanding the opportunities available to me, as well as getting a feel for what elements of the construction industry I really enjoy.

What do you plan to do when you leave Petroc?
When I finish the HNC, I plan on furthering my studies in the construction industry and hopefully attend UWE due to their state-of-the-art facilities and RICS accredited qualifications.

What’s the long-term plan?
I am very fortunate that my employer supports career development and we are currently exploring my options to study at degree level next year, so I can achieve RICS chartered status.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
To go for it, take the leap of faith and enjoy every moment of learning. It can lead to so many opportunities and you will learn so much of value, which will help you gain confidence and develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours for the industry. It’s definitely worth looking for an opportunity to complete this course alongside employment with a construction company like TCi where you are able to get hands-on with a wide variety of projects, including some major £multimillion developments!