TSA Surveying Course – introducing a new cohort and new course elements
Why enrol on our course?
Our course has an excellent reputation, with many former graduates excelling in their field. It provides a thorough grounding in theory and foundational surveying principles up to the latest advanced techniques.
Investing in effective staff training bridges skills gaps and ensures a motivated workforce. Our comprehensive modules will help your team members work more confidently and efficiently.
Delegates attend 6 x 2-week blocks spread over 18 months, receiving expert tuition from seasoned professional surveyors and plenty of hands-on experience. The course is also a great opportunity for delegates to connect with fellow junior surveyors and build a supportive professional network.
Forward-Looking and Future-Proof
To ensure the course keeps pace with advancing technology, new modules on terrestrial laser scanning have been introduced. This segment is delivered by our Senior Tutor, Adam Ball, who specialises in the Leica practical workflow, alongside Melvin Penwill from KOREC, who provides the Trimble practical workflow element.
Although Leica and Trimble workflows and software are used within the training, the laser scanning content is delivered using a manufacturer-neutral approach wherever possible. This ensures that the fundamental principles of laser scanning are taught in a way that is relevant regardless of the specific technology or brand being used.
In addition, updated Underground Utility Mapping material aligned with the PAS 128:2022 specification has been incorporated. These enhancements ensure the TSA Surveying Course continues to evolve, reflecting the latest surveying technologies, industry standards, and best-practice guidance.
ProQual Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Surveying
The TSA Surveying Course is run alongside the Proqual Level 3 Diploma, providing successful candidates with a qualification and standard recognised by Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).
Successfully completing all 6 TSA Surveying Course blocks fulfils the requirement for those wishing to upgrade from Student to Technical membership of CICES. It also meets the RICS eligibility requirements to apply for Associate Membership assessment – alongside evidence of 2 years’ experience.
How can I get on the next course?
Course 71 commences this July and bookings are now being taken. Most delegates who come to us are sponsored by their employers, but we do accept self-funders. If you, or someone you know, are curious about pursuing a career in land surveying and are unsure of next steps, then do get in touch with our friendly team.
Email us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or call on 01905 26329.
At The Survey School, we are very lucky to have passionate, dedicated tutors like Dave Bennett to mentor our course students. Dave is an Assoc RICS Land Surveyor with over 30 years’ practical experience. From 1980 – 2019 he worked as a Cartographic Surveyor for the Ordnance Survey. He has taught with us since 2019 and in his spare time is a keen canoeist.
I enjoy watching students develop as they progress through a course, both their technical skills and acquired knowledge. The surveying profession can be very focused at times, but in our courses students can discover all aspects of surveying – topo, measured buildings, utilities, GIS and setting-out.
It started with a love of maps, leading me to apply for my first post of cartographic draftsman with the Ordnance Survey in Southampton.
A pleasant surprise has been how technology has enhanced the role of a surveyor, with GNSS, reflectorless distance measurement and data loggers. It’s a far cry from a copy of the map stuck onto a board, using a scale and pencil to update the mapping!
A total station and a tape measure. I don’t need to rely on a phone signal and in reflectorless mode I can measure onto points I cannot get to.
My work as a cartographic surveyor was very much a niche occupation. Be more of a generalist, it gives you the opportunity to swap jobs and careers if you need to.
An important part of the job is problem solving and land registration jobs can be challenging, but rewarding. I was proud to complete mapping the Wyre Piddle bypass, before OS 1:2500 was readjusted to match GNSS, where I needed to modify it to align with the as-built construction plan.
A week spent using a total station set up on the central tower of a sewage works! It was high summer… there were many flies… Hooray for GNSS!
When I was 16, I spent a month in Uganda working in an orphanage, during my time there I was asked if I wanted to help carry out some setting out of new roads and building plots using a theodolite and tape measure. I really enjoyed the experience but didn’t think much about it for a while. A few years later, I saw an ad for a trainee surveyor role, offering the chance to travel and do fieldwork. My current employer was going through a round of redundancies, so the timing was spot on – fate even! I’ve always been into Geography and the outdoor life, so it felt like a natural fit and that’s where it all began.
Finally understanding the “why” behind what I was doing every day in the field. I was keen to get that deeper knowledge, not just how to take measurements, but how to process and check the data properly. Anyone can collect points, but the course really taught me how to spot when something’s not quite right and how to fix it. It was also a brilliant chance to meet people from other companies and share experiences, but it was the tutors who really made an impression – they were knowledgeable, approachable and genuinely passionate about the subject. I still keep in touch with some of them now.
If you treat surveying as just following a process, you can easily get stuck doing things one way without considering different methodologies. This isn’t an industry where one size fits all. The school helped broaden my knowledge and understand that there are many ways to create the required deliverable within your client’s time and cost constraints.
What I really enjoy about being a Regional Sales Director is the variety. I get to work across the whole company and meet an incredible mix of businesses, from police forces and construction firms to local authorities. Every day is different. I love helping make things happen and solving problems for colleagues and customers and really appreciate those moments when it all comes together. There’s nothing better than seeing a colleague succeed or a customer genuinely happy. I also really value the flexibility the role gives me to balance work and family life.
Challenging, ever-changing, rewarding.
I tell people that surveying is one of the most varied and interesting careers you can have. You’re constantly meeting new people and seeing new places, so no two days are the same and it’s a world away from being stuck behind a desk. Just in the past couple of months, I’ve been at black-tie events, laser-scanned the roof of a church and inside an HS2 tunnel, helped get a GNSS system running on a dredger and supported customers both onsite and over the phone.
Firstly, to get involved with personal development so you can meet more people and become more knowledgeable. If someone asks you if you can do something, or want to learn to do something, say “yes” and broaden your horizons. Secondly, don’t be afraid to ask – we’re a profession that can learn from those with long years of experience and from those relatively new to it who bring different skill sets.
Exciting things happen all the time at KOREC, whether that’s because we are among the first in the world to try out new technology, or because we work with customers on some of the most high-profile projects in the country, visiting the sites and talking to those involved.
I was involved in many projects that required return visits, the most memorable of which were the beach surveys. Often working in teams of up-to fifteen people, staying away for a week, solving problems on the fly in some of the most remote coastal areas of the UK, is a great way to understand teamwork! These projects delivered glorious scenery all around the UK coastline from the far depths of Cornwall up to the Scottish boarders and often included quad bike surveys, great team spirit and, best of all, a visit from my family.
Every KOREC promotion I’ve earned has been a proud moment, especially when I became a Regional Sales Director. This role means I’m responsible for my own team and it’s been extremely rewarding.
It’s hard to narrow it down to just three, but I’d say: First, I really enjoy giving talks and spending time with students, whether that’s at The Survey School or other educational settings. It’s great to see their curiosity and help spark an interest in the profession. Second, I love that moment when a potential customer is genuinely won over and can see how our team can make a real difference to their work. It’s incredibly satisfying. Third, I really appreciate when customers come back to ask for advice, saying things like “this is working so well, we need more.” It’s a great feeling to know you’ve helped them succeed and that they trust you to keep supporting them.
I’ve always had a strong interest in geography and a love for the outdoors. At the time, my only exposure to surveying was through roles like quantity surveying and condition surveys, which I knew of through my brother, who was an architect. It wasn’t until I began working at IETG, now part of SOCOTEC UK, as a Workshop Technician that I discovered land and utility surveying thanks to 40SEVEN, a sister company. When a Trainee Surveyor position became available, I saw the perfect opportunity to combine my passion for hands-on work, being outdoors and learning new skills. I applied and from that moment on, I was hooked! Land and utility surveying has become a true career path for me, and I’ve never looked back.
I really valued learning the theory behind the practical work I was doing day-to-day. Gaining a deeper understanding of the “how” and “why” behind surveying significantly improved my skills and made me a more effective surveyor. As a kinesthetic learner, hands on experiences are how I learn best, and school played a crucial role in supporting that. It not only strengthened my knowledge but deepened my passion for the profession. I’m genuinely grateful to The Survey School, Andrew Crumpler, and everyone else who supported me throughout my journey
Check, Check and check again! It’s always better to do more and have the choice to use and or delete what you don’t need.
I currently work as a Survey Instructor for Mid-Kent College at 1 RSME, and I feel privileged to be in a role where I can help shape the next generation of surveyors and soldiers. It’s incredibly rewarding to pass on knowledge and experience and to see trainees develop into capable surveyors. I deliver training that equips them with the skills to operate in both civilian and military environments, using a range of equipment from levels to S5 Total Stations and the X9 Scanner. We focus not only on technical proficiency but also the importance of accuracy, data processing, and producing clear, reliable drawings that meet operational demands anywhere in the world.
Technically 4 words (3 is so hard!) : Blessed, Life Changing, Team, Learning
I’m genuinely passionate about it, it’s given me the opportunity to explore a wide range of experiences and roles. In previous and current roles, I actively supported and help train trainees and staff, sharing both technical knowledge and on the job insight. Whenever someone asks about my work, I’m always eager to talk about surveying and highlight how it’s connected to so many aspects of everyday life. I try to relate it to familiar objects or tasks to help people see just how relevant and impactful the profession is.
I particularly want younger people to have access to the same opportunities I’ve had. The Survey Association course played a huge role in shaping my understanding of how and why surveying works. I believe it’s a vital foundation for anyone entering the field combining solid theoretical knowledge with practical experience to develop well-rounded, capable surveyors.
Be open to every opportunity. Too often, we say “no” out of hesitation or fear and miss out on experiences that could lead to growth. It’s far better to try and stumble than to never try at all. You learn more from taking a chance than from standing still.
I am currently involved in updating and enhancing the Hydrographic phase of the course. As part of this effort, we are collaborating with the Royal Navy. Recently, RN personnel joined us on the Tactical Support Boat (CSB) on the River Medway, where they observed our training exercises using the Total Station, GNSS, and the SonarMite system. In Trimble Business Center (TBC), we demonstrated how the hydrographic data could be integrated into a topographical model to create a more comprehensive survey output. Looking ahead, we are planning further engagement with other branches and specialisations, including a visit to Devonport to connect with the Hydrographic Exploitation Group (HXG).
I worked on the Manchester Airport expansion project, which required a comprehensive topographical and utility survey covering both landside and airside areas including the taxiways. Working airside brought a unique sense of privilege and responsibility. The project demanded close coordination and planning between our survey team, the main contractor, ground control, and various subcontractors. It was a complex and fast-paced environment that constantly challenged me to adapt and find solutions under pressure. Now that the project is complete, I feel a strong sense of pride every time I visit the airport. I often find myself thinking, “I surveyed that.” Revisiting past project sites always brings back valuable memories and reinforces the professional growth I’ve gained through those experiences.
I can’t pick just one! Being part of The Survey Department Team at 1 RSME. Picking up the Institution Medal by the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) – and passing the TSA Course!
TSA Conference and Awards Day is the cornerstone of our annual events calendar. Far from being just a formality, it is a significant occasion where successful TSA Surveying Course students, member companies and surveying professionals come together to honour hard work, dedication and excellence in the field.
However, TSA Conference is not just about accolades, it’s also about inspiration. Our special keynote speaker was Mandy Hickson, the trailblazing former Royal Air Force fast-jet pilot and motivational speaker. Drawing on her risk-taking, team and leadership skills Mandy inspired attendees to embrace challenges and think big. In Top Gun, Maverick says “It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot” and the same holds true for surveying. Skill, training and experience matter – people matter.
Completing the surveying course is also no mean feat! We were thrilled that nearly all 29 qualifying students could join us for the day. This included delegates from Sint Maarten in the Caribbean, who regularly travelled to the UK specifically for the excellent training The Survey School provides.
Five students achieved a Distinction this year, with an average 85% or higher in all of their classwork, assignments and exams. The 2025 Best Student Award, jointly sponsored by TSA and Leica Geosystems, was presented to Max Heaton of Centara, both for his exemplary work, attitude and team playing. TSA Vice-President’s Special Recognition Award went to Theodor Suhan, a self-funded student commended for his high standards and unwavering perseverance. Luke Appleton of Archidata received the CICES prize for Best Assignment, achieving a remarkable 100% for his work, commended for its meticulous attention to detail.
The skills and knowledge acquired studying at The Survey School undoubtedly helps equip its students for a bright future career. Many also tell us they have forged friendships that will last a lifetime. The conference day too, provides a platform for survey professionals to come together, share insights and make valuable connections.
“It’s 100% going to improve the quality of my work going forward. It’s a great foundation for any new surveyor – it makes you think about what you do every day from a different angle”
“It’s been great – meeting new surveyors, improving my knowledge and progressing”
“I’d like to keep in touch with The Survey School tutors as they have been a great support network”
TSA Conference and Awards Day is more than a celebration, it’s a pivotal moment for students to reflect on their journey, to network and look forward to a promising future in land surveying.
We are dedicated to continually reviewing and modernising our course offerings to ensure Survey School students are not only well-prepared, but excel in the ever-evolving landscape of surveying.
The Survey School is proud to announce the re-approval of our TSA Surveying Course by the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) for a further five years.
This endorsement, achieved following a comprehensive audit, emphasises our dedication to excellence in geospatial training, equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the surveying profession.
Survey School Manager, Alan Mansell, expressed his delight:
“We’re thrilled to receive this ongoing approval from CICES. It’s a fantastic recognition of the quality of the training we deliver”
The audit scrutinised all aspects of the TSA Surveying Course, including its curriculum and how it measures its impact in preparing students for career challenges and opportunities. Past graduates, many now experts in their field, have recognised their time at The Survey School as a crucial starting point for their successful careers.
The surveying course delivers a comprehensive syllabus that covers all the varied subjects of surveying – topographical, measured buildings, utilities and GIS. It balances practical fieldwork with theoretical knowledge, so that graduates are equipped with the understanding and versatility needed across multiple sectors. Alan adds:
“We are committed to evolving the Surveying Course to include emerging technologies and methodologies. We’ll adapt so that our students continue to receive the very best foundational geospatial surveying course available in the UK”
The next TSA Surveying Course with space available begins 2nd March 2026.
Contact us now for an online application form or more information.