IT apprentice Review

Manufacturing IT apprentice This involves maintaining the telephone system, patching telephone lines, patching data. I am also responsible for the ASCOM DECT system and replace handsets where necessary. I also have to order stock when necessary to ensure we have items when needed.

I have definitely learnt a lot more skills on my apprenticeship, as when I started I didnt know much about manufacturing IT and networking. I have also taken part in training to be able to use the new CMMS system and train others.

I enjoy my programme quite a lot. It has been a very different experience for me where I have got to meet a lot of new people, who made me feel very welcome.

I feel quite valued by Unilever as I have been involved in some big projects on site which are now going to be used in other Unilever sites across the UK. To have this kind of effect makes me feel very valued.

My programme is organised very well so that I am able to complete the apprenticeship work alongside working and have a lot of support from my managers. It is structured so that I have regular meetings with my assessor and employer to ensure that I keep on track and to help me when needed.

I get a lot of support from my tutor to ensure that I understand what I need to be working on. He will spend time and explain criteria that I need to target.

My manager also meets with me to discuss criteria which is a great help in matching criteria to work tasks. I also know that I can go to them with any other problems I have.

My salary meets my costs quite well as I am able to cover travel costs every day, allowing me to travel almost an hour to work. After this, I am still able to pay for other expenses and social costs.

For the site I work at there aren't many company events or activities which are suitable for me. This is also partly due to location as I live further away than the local area.

Yes

I have been given a lot of opportunities which I am very grateful for, that I wouldnt have got in my local area. The chance to study a diploma and foundation degree can be challenging at times, but I have always been supported with this.

I would always say to be honest as the process will go a lot more smoothly. Also research Unilever and the job role before the application process so that you know exactly what they are looking for before you go into the assessment day, so you can show them what skills you have.