Packaging Apprentice Review

My role is to support in developing and deploying new confectionery packaging formats, technologies and materials throughout our business. In a simplified model this begins with innovation and scouting, where we look for new ideas both externally and internally. Once a business case is made it goes to trialling and testing. Finally we aid in implementing it within our factories, alongside providing technical assistance when needed.

I have developed skills in being able to plan out, pre-align and execute trials. Within research and development trialling is very important, providing us with vital information on how feasible a new technology or material is. As materials, time and labour all have a cost associated with them it is important to be able to create robust and comprehensive plans beforehand. However trials rarely go as planned, so being able to think on your feet and change the plan on the go is also a necessary skill. Finally analysis and interpretation are needed to understand what the data gathered means, and to present it in an intuitive way to stakeholders. From this I have developed my knowledge of statistics, vital in being able to interpret large amounts of data.

Before my apprenticeship I felt uncertain what I wanted to do with my life, and was unsatisfied with the career-path I found myself in. Since starting this I've found work far more rewarding and challenging, I'm learning something new every day. I feel I am working towards a career I can feel proud of, enabling me to easily find motivation at the start of each day.

Nestlé provide a very well structured programme for apprenticeships, which is led by the Nestlé Academy. Before beginning there was a keep in touch day, which was helpful in knowing what to expect. When beginning we had a week long induction at a business centre, which helped in settling us into the Nestlé mindset while developing a network between us.

Nestlé is very supportive in developing me as an apprentice and employee. My line manager and mentor really care about my personal development and ensuring I fulfil the Knowledges, Skills and Behaviours that are part of the apprenticeship standard. Time for university studies and work is respected an prioritised. Any issues I have are treated seriously and quickly dealt with.

My training provider (Sheffield Hallam University) are easily contactable and responsive when any issues arise, being these related to assessments or other problems. It has been somewhat difficult over the last year due to the remote nature of the teaching, but I feel the university has now adapted well, while trying to ensure we can gain the most from our studies.

My qualification (Packaging Professional) helps bring a theoretical expertise to my job role, to enable me to have a better understanding when using new materials and packaging formats. It also allows me to understand other parts of the industry that I have less exposure to, allowing me to bring new ideas and skills to my employer that I would have struggled to develop elsewise.

I regularly engage in social activities with my colleagues outside of work, such as meeting up for walks and after work drinks. My work itself provides us with access to gyms for our personal use, along with some classes. We are also given two volunteer days a year which we can either use together as a team to help with a local charity project, or can take ourselves to individually help.

Yes

Nestlé are an employer which genuinely care about your personal development, giving you the long-term opportunity to progress in a meaningful career. From their size and global scale opportunities can be based across the world. Your health and safety is taken seriously and always prioritised. It is a pleasant work atmosphere filled with skilled but caring colleagues.

The application process is quite long, so be prepared for many different stages. Ensure that you've done your homework (read the apprenticeship standard, know some of Nestlé's history, why you want this particular role) and that you come dressed professionally to the assessment day. Keeping answers brief, focused and to the point is always better than waffling on.