Research and Development Apprentice Review

I am completing the degree apprenticeship for research and development, and so I travel once a week to London Met university to study chemistry. The course is 5 years long and I will get a BSc at the end. My day-to-day roles at work include making mixes of ice cream that I then analyse using many different pieces of equipment. I then present my findings to my team. I work on many different projects. No two days are the same.

As well as getting a degree paid for by the company, I also get to develop key skills needed for the working environment, such as comminucation and analysis. They are many opportunities to learn new pieces of equipment, and courses are held by both internal and external experts in order to ensure you have all the skills needed for your role.

I really enjoy the programme. I enjoy the work I am given, and I like that every day is different. I have a great team that is extremely supportive and always willing to help out. The university work and actual work can be challenging to balance, but I know I can always get help to organise my working time to accommodate this.

Despite being an apprentice, I am given a lot of responibility and independence. I run my own experiments and present my own data. Throughout the programme, my responsibilities will increase, and I will have a larger role in my projects. I feel that I am a valued member of my team, and my work is taken seriously.

The programme is relatively well structured, with constant improvements being made to it. I have a rotational apprenticeship, so I have the opportunity to work in different departments to see where I fit best. I am given enough time to complete my univerisity work, and the amount of work I am given is achievable. I have monthly 1-2-1 meetings with my line manager to allow time for any problems or questions I a=may have.

At university the lecturers understand that we are part time students and are very helpful. The work load is doable and there is always someone to help if unsure. If I have any questions when I am not at university, I know I will get an anwser from my lecturer the same day via email.

My manager is very supportive and I feel very comfortable to ask any questions or report any problems that arise.

All university fees and expenses are paid for by the company. The pay is very good for a school leaver.

There are lots of sporting activities provided by work. There are lots of routes for walks and runs around site, as well as a gym and sports fields. Unilever also allows for volunteer days, on top of holiday days. There are informal social events on throughout the year, such as a panto and BBQs.

Yes

Unilever is a great place to work with many opportunities to learn and progress. The facilities are great and my colleagues are welcoming and always willing to help out. There is lots of flexibility and many opportunities outside of work. I am also given enough time to complete the work I need to for university.

Be prepared - learn as much as you can about the company and why you want to work for them. Be passionate about what you do and the job on offer. Build up your CV with relevant experiences as this will allow you to have something to talk about in the interview.