Food and drink engineering apprentice Review

Food & Drink engineering maintenance apprenticeship - majority of time spent so far has been at college gaining basic knowledge and skills in compliance, maths, electronics, maintenance best practice, welding, milling and turning. I have just started at the factory and I am getting involves with a variety of tasks on the shop floor and in the workshop.

I have developed my maths skills and have learnt a number of new skills as mentioned above - welding, milling and turning.

The programme has been really enjoyable, the support ha been great, both from the mentors, the college, and within the apprentice team itself. This has contributed to the overall experience. There is a variety of work and lots to learn. The pay also makes it really worthwhile.

It has often been mentioned by management how important the apprentices are at Nestle and recognition is given when it is deserved. Recognition slips are often used for peer to peer recognition. Overall I feel like a valued part of the team, even though I am not fully skilled yet.

Given that this is the first year of the programme, it has been exceptionally well organized. Any small issues that did exist were quickly and efficiently resolved and action has been taken to ensure these issues do not reoccur next year. At college we have been given varying types of learning tasks, such as team activities, presentations, self-study etc. This has helped in preparing everyone for everyday life in the factory. Roles and responsibilities are made clear from the start and support is available both from mentors at Nestle and our lecturers at college.

Support is always readily available both at college and on site. Everyone is approachable so if and when support is required, if you ask you will get it.

As with my previous comments, support is always readily available and management/mentors/HR are all very approachable and will always spend time to help resolve any issues when required.

The salary is excellent for the apprentice role. Travel costs are reimbursed at a very fair amount and the living costs when living away are more than sufficient to cover usual food costs.

There are events outside of work, such as visiting Rashleigh's where we got to do team activities and Nestle values. We also went to Oyutward Bound where we got to do some challenging but exciting team building activities such as canoeing, rock climbing and gorge scrambling.

Yes

It's an excellent company that looks after it's staff, has good values and has great programmes to support communities around the world. Very socially responsible and also gives an excellent pay and reward package. Development opportunities appear to exist at all levels.

Be yourself, but be prepared. If in doubt or unsure of anything, ask. The support here is fantastic and that includes at the recruitment stages. It's an excellent opportunity, and as long as you act professionally and put the effort in you can go a long way.