Store Apprentice Review

My role entails learning the basics of a Store Assistant's role, and after I have got to grips with that (they give you a year to fit into the role), I start to learn small parts of the role as a Deputy Store Manager. Day to day roles are serving customers on the tills, restocking shelves in the most efficient way possible, replenishing off-sales, assisting customers, handling returns and complaints. This list is not exhaustive.

Yes, I have learned many good customer service skills that are useful within any industry that you may go into in the future, and are also useful for Level 3 later on, as you will handle more customer complaints and be running shifts around the store. I developed my mathematic skills as we have to work out the change ourselves on the till.

I really enjoy the porgramme, as I enjoy every aspect of the job. I have grown into the role, and didn't used to like certain things e.g. carding the store. But now I have learned the meaning behind it (increases sales because it looks presentable) I enjoy knowing I'm doing it to benefit the store, and I take it personally whenever the store does well and doesn't do as well.

It is fairly well structured. Level 2 isn't as well structured, as they train you up to Store Assistant and stop there in my opinion. But Level 3 looks ver well paced and evry well structured. In terms of organisation, the porgram is well organised. They clearly show you what you are going to be learning within the first 6 weeks of training to get you up to the correct standards.

I recieve a good amount of support from all colleagues, from Store Assistants to the different tiers of management. They are all as good, fun and supportive as each other. Staff are always eager to show you if you're not doing something the best you can, and they equally can take criticism off you.

I receieve very good support. My current, and past regional trainer have been absolutely amazing. They always let you know that they're always on the other end of the phone if you need them. They are constantly there for support. They always make sure that I am on track with the work involved.

I feel it helps very well. They show me all the 'behind the scenes' stuff. So when I am remerchandising SpecialBuys (for example), theys how me why this is important; by doing worksheets, watching videos and looking at sales facts as to how this helps it look more attractive to customers.

Yes, Aldi also do charity events for Teenage Cancer Trust, which is the charity they support the most. They have pots on every till for change donations. They also held a football challenge (5-a-side I believe) where staff would sign themselves up, and play matches. I believe this also raised money for Teenage Cancer Trust.

Yes

Because they're a very good company to work for. They have industry-leading wages, and they also have industry leading wages for apprentices. Their apprenticeship schemes are one of the best. I ask many of my friends who are apprentices and they don't do half the stuff we do. The program is organised, the support is good and it feels like one big family.

I would definately say to do your research, as it isn't easy to get into ALDI. Practise interveiws with friends, make sure you have a common sense apporach and can work effectively and efficiently. Be friendly, pick things up quickly, and if you've worked in a supermarket previously, or even with customers, then you have that as an advantage.