Despite completing a degree in Sports Science and Management at Loughborough University, I subsequently went on to complete a second degree in Property Development (RICS accredited) at Portsmouth University in 2011.
Over the next two years I worked as a land surveyor then as a surveyor in the land and development department of an estate agency in Sussex. Whilst I enjoyed the job it was in the residential surveying sector where I really wanted to develop my skills.
After seeing an advert for the Countrywide Surveying Services trainee programme I made the decision to apply. The trainee programme was much more comprehensive and structured than others I had undertaken with previous employers.
Countrywide’s training scheme was one of the most attractive on the market and I liked the fact the firm was putting so much resource into developing younger talent, which is not always the case at other companies in the sector.
There were some challenging elements to the trainee programme, particularly the modules on building defects. I was assigned a mentor who helped me during the trainee programme and I am still able to shadow them and ask for guidance now, which is really helpful.
The trainee programme has given me invaluable experience and knowledge about the residential surveying sector which I can build upon in the future.
Next for me is trying to continue a career in residential surveying at Countrywide and gaining more skills and knowledge. One thing I am keen to do is make the move from Sussex to London and work in a different housing market, surveying many different types of property.
Luke Matthews recently qualified as an Associate of RICS after undertaking a training programme with Countrywide Surveying Services
