R&D Degree Apprentice Review

I work in the global beverages processing team, which is responsible for new and innovative products and processes. My day to day work includes working in the lab to test new products and processes. I also work in the pilot plant to test how new products and processes will translate once performed on a larger or factory scale.

I've learnt how to use new lab equipment and pilot plant equipment. I have also undertaken both food safety and manual handling training courses for which I received a qualification. Skills I've developed include my presentation skills as I am more confident in speaking in front of a group of people.

I find my programme very energising and interesting due to the fact that I am able to see the work that goes on behind that scenes for something as simple as a beverage. My team is also lovely and have made me feel welcome and I feel confident in asking questions. I feel the company is very caring towards its employees with many company benefits being given to employees.

The programme is very well structured and training is provided every step of the way - depending on the type of person you are the trainers are happy to take things slow or allow you to work independently from the get go. University wise there could be some improvement in the content and the delivery of the content. The support system provided is very good and time is given to apprentices to carry out their studies during the working week.

I feel a lot of support is received from my employer, my manager is very supportive and tries to ensure I am placed on projects that will energise me. The HR team is good in answering questions and explaining things in understandable terms. There is a lot of support available on site, through occupational health and also well being teams etc.

I feel the training provider overall gives a lot of support, with some aspects that could be improved (but this is more down to individuals rather than the whole provider itself). A clear structure is set out for what work needs to be completed and the deadlines for this. Another area for improvement would be to clearly give examples of what to include in assignments as oftentimes a question is just presented without any guidance. Generally I feel as though the provider wants to support and I do find the course enjoyable

I feel as though theory learnt at university goes hand in hand with the role I carry out at work. There are times when I have learnt something at university and been able to apply it to my role to further understand the reason behind processes. Overall, I would say the qualification does help me perform better in my role.

There are many social events at work including parties and fairs. There are also sports clubs either held at lunch time or after work hours. The teams also take part in away days where you are able to bond with your team through volunteering etc. I think it's great that there are so many things to get involved with at work!

Yes

The company culture is great in that they value their employees and it feels as though they always have employees at the heart of the company. The research undertaken by Unilever is also world class and it's nice to be a part of something so innovative and fast paced

I would say be confident and be yourself! Look into what Unilever is about and what their core messages are and see if these align with your own values and beliefs. Try to demonstrate that you have looked into the company and find examples of how you relate to the company values in your day to day life, or previous work.