Apprenticeship Delivery Review

I sit within the National Programmes/Apprenticeship Delivery Team. My daily tasks vary but mainly include producing comms, operations of apprentice recruitment, updating job boards and financial management of the apprenticeship budget. I work with the National Programmes Team and apprentice line managers internally, externally I interact with the employer and training provider when arranging recruitment activities.

I have learnt several new skills in my role. I am more confident in my approach to work and feel I have got much better at building a network within the company and communicating with external stakeholders. I am more organised and am always looking to learn more and develop. I often attend soft skill training sessions that have helped me to develop in areas such as negotiation, assertiveness and time management. I have also learnt a lot through my CIPD studies which has allowed me to enhance me knowledge of the HR function. There is lots of opportunity to attend various internal courses to develop your skills and capabilities.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme. I am constantly learning new things and taking on more and more responsibility. I really enjoy learning more about the company on the job as well as learning a lot of theory through my studies. It's really interesting to see how the two align in practise.

I feel hugely valued by Unilever. I feel that they have invested a lot of time and effort into training me and guiding me through my apprenticeship and I am hugely grateful. I have received recognition for key pieces of projects/work I have done and it really makes you feel that you have helped make a difference.

My programme is very well structured. I have a clear learning plan and objectives on what I am meant to achieve. I have regular catch ups with my assessor and programme lead and there are several channels of support available to me. I think it's really important to have a clear understanding on what the expectations of the programme are so you are able to work towards them with support where needed.

The support from my training provider is great. I have sessions with the programme lead who clearly explains what is required of me for each assignment. This helps me plan my workload vs my study load effectively and answers any questions I have. I also have regular review meetings with my assessor to review progress and check that I am on track and if I require any additional support.

I receive all the support I need from my employer. They arrange regular review meetings to see how you are progressing in your role and provide any additional support if needed. If I have a concern or query the employer will always get back to you with a response and explain the situation.

My salary package meets my costs fine. I live at home so pay cheap rent and travel too and from work is affordable. What is great about being an apprentice is you are eligible for railcards and NUS discount cards which usually makes your money go further! :)

I have found there are loads of opportunities outside of work. This could be in the form of team social events, volunteering or events. In my time as an apprentice I have got involved in various volunteering activities which is a great way to get to know more people and help give back to your local community. I am also an apprentice ambassador so have done several school and career fair visits as well as be involved in our apprentice social media channels.

Yes

It's a great company with great opportunities and people. The offices are amazing and the atmosphere/culture of Unilever is something I really enjoy. There are lots of apprentices too which means you can ask lots of questions you may not want to ask your manager or team and you can build lasting friendships and a network of people that are in a similar situation!

I would say go for it! It's a such a good opportunity and I am so glad I have been on this apprenticeship journey. I would say do your research, make sure it is for you, and then apply. The recruitment process may seem long but it is worth it and you can learn so much from it. Just be yourself throughout and try not to worry too much! Good luck! :)