Across a range of disciplines, East Sussex Highways support Apprentices and T Level Students developing skills and building their futures.
We spoke to some of our apprentices about their journey with us so far...
Jack- Electrical Streetlighting Apprentice
My apprenticeship with Balfour Beatty on the East Sussex Highways contract is both dynamic and rewarding. The company’s unwavering focus on training and safety - exemplified by their immersive Early Careers programme and team building in the Lake District - creates a truly supportive environment. Through Balfour Beatty’s dedicated training support, I recently achieved a major milestone by passing my Class 2 HGV licence and have begun driving gritters, significantly expanding my operational capabilities. With clear opportunities for career progression, I am rapidly developing the technical skills necessary for a successful future in the industry.
Marcus- Apprentice Project Manager, Structures Team
Hi, my name is Marcus, and I am an Apprentice Project Manager at Balfour Beatty Living Places within the Structures Team in East Sussex. I have really enjoyed being able to compare the theory I have learned during my training with real-life scenarios, which has helped me to understand faster and develop more quickly. My team has been very supportive, and I feel able to ask any questions I have. I am nearing the end of my apprenticeship and am looking forward to continuing my learning and working on a broader range of projects as I develop.
Hannah- Apprentice Data Analyst
My name is Hannah, and I joined Balfour Beatty in September as an Apprentice Data Analyst. Over the past few months, everyone has been incredibly welcoming, and I’ve received great support throughout my apprenticeship. I’ve already learned so much, and the flexibility and encouragement from my manager have helped me put those new skills into practice day to day.
The Early Careers programme really shows how committed Balfour Beatty is to helping people grow. In October, I travelled to Manchester for an event where we heard an inspiring speech from Philip Hoare and others across the business, which left me feeling excited about my future here.
Isabelle- Apprentice Project Manager, Drainage Team
I am an Apprentice Project Manager working within the Drainage Team at Balfour Beatty Living Places in East Sussex. I’m currently completing my Level 4 Associate Project Management qualification while gaining hands-on experience delivering drainage investigations and improvement works across the county.
In my spare time, I enjoy horse riding and regularly volunteer at disabled sporting events.
Over the last few months, we've also welcomed three Engineering T Level students on industry placement at East Sussex Highways from East Sussex College and Bexhill 6th Form College.
Throughout their placements, the students have gained hands‑on experience across multiple teams, connecting their college learning with the reality of the engineering workplace. From supporting live projects and attending team meetings to completing mandatory training, they have quickly become embedded in our day‑to‑day operations. They were also included in our annual Stand Down safety briefing following the Christmas break, giving them valuable insight into the importance of safety and wellbeing in our industry.
Their impact reflects what is being seen more widely across the sector. Speaking on #tlevelthursday, as part of National Apprenticeship Week, Dominic Martinez highlighted how our “industry placement students were incredibly impressive – confident, thoughtful, and fantastic representatives of their colleges.” This confidence and professionalism has been clear to see throughout their time with us.
It’s also encouraging to see employers across Sussex embracing T Levels as a meaningful talent pathway. As Dominic noted, “it’s inspiring to see companies like Balfour Beatty making T Level industry placements a core part of their business through strong collaboration with education partners.” This kind of partnership helps ensure students gain real, high‑quality experience while employers support the future workforce.
Ultimately, these placements give young people “vital insight into what work can look like in construction and engineering sectors that urgently need new and diverse talent,” while allowing employers to nurture and inspire the next generation. We’re proud to have played our part and have loved seeing the students’ confidence grow and curiosity shine.