Student Site Engineer Review

Really enjoyed working on this summer placement. I had never worked in the rail sector before and so it was a completely new experience to me. due to the way the rail onsite works are set up, you can only really get onsite at weekends- so the weekdays are mostly spent managing or planning for your subcontractors works at the weekend.

I felt valued by my colleagues, but the team I was placed with had about 20years experience each so my opinion wasn't too highly held. However saying that when I was asked for an answer, provided a solution or opinion it was considered and discussed. I think it depends on the work too, as they were willing to give me a small package of works to manage, but this just didn't get off the ground.

Whenever I asked a question it was answered and everybody was keen to pass on as much information as possible to me from there experience.

On a day to day basis I wasn't incredibly busy, however it is always good to see another sector and experience a different style of working.

As noted earlier, they were willing to give me a small package of works but it didn't get off the ground. Onsite I was treated like a supervisor in training, so had some responsibility above the subcontractor.

Completely new sector so a huge amount to take away from this placement. So many different skills and concepts acquired. I also completed my PTS and ICI training which is a big box to get ticked off.

The general atmosphere was really good, very upbeat and every day there is a different thing to laugh about. Nice to join a good tight knit team who are keen to involve you in everything possible.

HR is getting better every year and this time I had some input in choosing where I was placed. Apart from some difficulties with paperwork and small organising issues, the placement ran smoothly.

Put me through my PTS and ICI training. This is my 3rd year with Costain and they continue to invest in me as a student and will do after graduation. They are an excellent company to work for and put their employees first.

Very Appealing, though you could say that for the whole construction industry.

I didn't meet any of the other placement students on this site. However went out with my team socialising on a regular basis, also had lunch in the pub on a daily basis. Played in a 5 a-side football team set up by the project team every Thursday night.

Costain will give you an allowance for living. London prices are obviously on the steep side in terms of socialising.

Nightlife was good, and regularly socialised after work with the team. Attended a few nights out with Costain and Network Rail which were both excellent nights!

Living down in London for the whole summer means there is a huge collection of activities to get involved in. As mentioned there is usually a football team you can join, set up by the project.