R&D Refreshment Apprentice Review

My five year apprenticeship will include 3 rotations around different departments in R&D for Refreshment. My first placement is in the packaging team, where I am partly responsible for the packaging lab and some testing/prototyping machines. I also support projects by conducting tests in the lab, for example investigating the opening force of ice cream tubs.

I have had the opportunity to attend many training courses, both online and in person for professional development as well as training to support my role. I have developed lots of technical skills as well as improved my confidence and teaching skills by training others on machines in the lab.

So far I am really enjoying the programme. I found it easy to settle into my role as everyone is very friendly and helpful. The culture here is really relaxed. The course is different to what I was expecting, but not in a bad way! I also love traveling to London to go to uni one day a week where I can interact with my lecturers and other students.

Unilever treats apprentices here just the same as normal employees - only difference is we are out the office once a week for uni. Managers are really supportive and I feel like I contribute a significant amount to the team and people value my work.

The induction process was smooth and support for studying and training is good. I also had an apprentice buddy when I began to help me settle in and have weekly catch up meetings with my line manager. The actual rotation plan for me is not set in stone... I am currently not sure how long I will be in this team, or where I will be going next, but this is not too much of a problem.

The university supports part time students quite well, but the course is designed for full time students so some parts of modules aren't always relevant/appropriate. The chemistry lecturers at London Met are wonderful though, and understand our situation and provide a massive amount of support and came to visit us at our workplace as well.

Employer is very supportive in many aspects including wellbeing (there's lots of lunchtime sports clubs for example) as well as supporting us with uni ( a day off before exams for revision and a subject mentor at work) and our professional career. There's always someone to talk to if things aren't going quite right.

When I was searching for apprenticeships, some were inaccessible to me as I would have to move away from home and would not be able to support myself, however Unilever provides a very generous package, so I can easily afford my rent, fuel and other expenses with a bit to spare to enjoy myself. There is also a annual bonus and as apprentices we get pay rises every year as we become more qualified.

Lots of things to do outside of work on site, for example there's a choir, lots of sports clubs, CD club etc. There are also opportunities to volunteer, such as visiting primary schools for National Science Week to do experiments.

Yes

Great,friendly company to work for, and will fully fund and support you to complete your degree whilst on the apprenticeship scheme. Lots of opportunities to develop yourself and progress.

Show off your personality, Unilever is full of friendly people which is valued a lot, just be yourself and be willing to push yourself and make the most of opportunities given to you.