Rating

9.8/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • I am currently training to become a multi-skilled maintenance engineer under the EDEN programme hosted by Arla Foods UK. Daily tasks tend to vary depending upon the area in which I have been assigned at the time. For example, if I am working within process then I may be asked to service valves/pumps or to assist in dealing with a breakdown. I interact with individuals from all departments and meet new people on a daily basis. Although I spend most of my time interacting with the person that I have been assigned to shadow on any given day - this is who I learn the most from and get real work experience from.

    10/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I spent almost 5 months at college where I learned a lot of different skills such as electronics, mechanical, welding, machining and pneumatics. I have brought these skills back from college and applied them to the workplace. By the end of the apprenticeship I will be a fully trained multi-skilled engineer which will be great for career progression

    10/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • So far I have absolutely loved the programme and I am excited to get on and keep learning. It has been the best decision I have ever made in my professional life. The workplace is amazing and I work with a talented and supportive team. The company is also very supportive and aiding the progression in my career

    10/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by Arla Foods?
  • I feel well valued and feel that I am contributing to the team. My mentor is incredibly supportive and is giving me conistent work to complete.

    10/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • It is a well organised programme and you are never really stuck for things to do. The demanding nature of the job results in a consistent workload meaning you will never be bored. New jobs pop up on a daily basis and so you don't get bored. College was a little unorganised in places; the assignments that I was given were not planned as such and I felt rushed at times.

    8/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • My mentor is very supportive and always thinking of my progression. I am being given jobs that are beneficial for my future and overall success in the role. I feel that help will always be there if I need it, all I need to do is ask. I thoroughly enjoyed my first year at college and I am excited to return and see all the people that I became good friends with.

    10/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • Arla are very supportive in the fact that they will help you in anyway they can to make you the best that you can be. There is always opportunity for growth through training sessions which are held regularly. My mentor is always happy to help if I need it.

    10/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • As far as an apprenticeship goes the pay is amazing. An average apprenticeship of this kind would pay just £6,000 whilst this apprenticeship pays £16,000 and increases each year. It is more than enough to cover my living costs as I still live at home with my parents. Arla will also cover all travel costs to and from college which means you can travel back home on the weekends and it won't cost you anything. Arla also provide money for food whilst staying at college for training.

    10/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • Individuals from within the company often meet up to play football or just to socialise. There is an on-site gym that costs a small fee per month and can be used by any employee. This is really helpful as you can go before you begin or after you finish work without travelling elsewhere.

    10/10

  • 9. Would you recommend Arla Foods to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • I thoroughly enjoy my time working here and would absolutely recommend working here to anyone. I enjoy going to work which is not something I have really ever been able to say before now. There are great job opportunities that come along with the job and you learn a lot that can be taken with you in your future career.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Arla Foods?
  • The best advice I could give to someone applying to Arla Foods is to be ready to learn and try your absolute best. As long as you show you're trying you're best you will be in good stead to become a great engineer. When attending the interview day in Coventry, I would recommend being ready to integrate and talk to the other applicants. If you can show you work well in a team then you will show good suitability.


Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Engineering

South East

April 2018


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