Degree Apprentice- R&D Review

Running team meetings and knowing the teams different activities for the week. Supporting the team with different trials and projects. Assisting with the running and planning of practical trials; from creating formulations to making the product. Having the responsibility of being a room keeper ensuring that the room is kept neat and tidy. Meeting with different teams to collaborate on projects. Running tests on products to collect physical data.

I have learnt many new skills since becoming an apprentice at Unilever. I have developed my skills in handling myself in a professional environment as well as developing my written communication skills. I have learnt many new practical skills, learning how to use different equipment and carry out different processes. I have attended many learning sessions relevant to my work ensuring that my knowledge is up to date.

I extremely enjoy my programme. I enjoy the wide variety of work undertaken and the number of different projects I get to work on. The team and surrounding teams are all well-mannered, helpful and considering making it an enjoyable place to work. The company culture is excellent and aligns with my thoughts and beliefs. The programme is better than I expected with the work/uni balance being perfect.

The programme is very well organised. When I joined I was assigned a personal mentor to help me settle in and I know I could ask anyone for help when needed. One day a week (20% of my time) is set aside for uni work where I can solely focus on my studies. Me and my line manager always have regular catch up meetings to discuss any concerns that I may have.

There is an enormous amount of support from everyone. I know I can speak to anyone in my team and in surrounding teams whenever I need any help or support. The availability of guidance is regularly highlighted to employees and you are not made to feel scared of asking for help. The HR team are very approachable and helpful.

I know that I can always reach out to my training provider if I need any help or advice. I have a tutor who I can speak to about any concerns/worries and we have fairly regular catch up meetings. I really enjoy the course and it is just what I expected. Sometimes things aren't always communicated efficiently however it doesn't usually take long to get them sorted out.

The learnings of my qualification hasn't directly helped me perform better in my role however I have only just started the course so we are focusing on the basics to ensure everyone is on a level playing field. Some of the topics coming up will align with my job role therefore will help me on a day-to-day basis. I feel that I know more about the industry I am working in because of my qualification.

There are always social events on at work. From sporting activities to panto rehearsals. On a weekly basis we have optional team tea break meetings to sit and have a chat with your colleagues. As an apprentice community we have many different social events with a weekly quiz night. On site there are many different sporting clubs available to join.

Yes

Unilever is a brilliant company to work for with amazing ethics and values. The people are all so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable meaning there is always someone to turn to. The wide range of experience gained is invaluable, throwing you into the world of food development and manufacture. The support and feedback from people around you is amazing.

Be yourself! Make sure you are well prepared for the interview but it is not as scary as you think. Make the most of all of the experiences, taking every opportunity thrown at you. Starting a full time job isn't as scary as you think, there is so much support from everyone around you, you will feel at home in no time.