Manufacturing apprentice Review

My role as an apprentice is very varied. Initially I had a great opportunity placed in the projects team where I was reporting production and reworking figures daily. Attending and contributing to activity meetings. Completing monitoring activities to verify improvements and validate machine set points. Creating and updating standards. Now shadowing production in lead operative role as I requested.

I have developed existing skills and learnt new skills. Communication and team working have improved whilst learning how to approach and get to know new people during project activities. New skills learnt with Nestle systems and zero loss reviews. Also gained further knowledge around production planning, labour and material variances.

I think the programme is fantastic but could be more personalised for each individual’s skill / knowledge. Some areas didn’t need as much work for me due to past experience/roles. The variety of work is very enjoyable and motivates me to want to learn more. I am enjoying seeing production views and opinions from various roles.

The structure and organisation of the programme are good. It is well set up with clear expectations and standards. One file could be better organised and labelled against the standards to enable a better review of progress.

Nestle are extreme supportive. When I first started I had so much support that I wasn’t sure which person to use but the onboarding process helped me determine who was best to help depending on the issue. I have both a mentor and line manager that check I’m on track with the apprenticeship and happy.

The training provider provides feedback. Once a task has been completed, the feedback will always include positive comments along with any potential improvements but is not face to face. Other support is available and contact details are provided for different support functions upon starting the course.

For the role I’m aiming to reach with my current background/experience, it doesn’t help me perform any better and there are also areas of the course that I may not need to use.

Yes, social activities are arranged by employees together often. I also attended a team meal for the project team after completing project and handling unplanned issues/obstacles well as a team. No sports teams that I’m aware of, but it would be good to have if possible. Other activities such as volunteering events are shared through Nestle grapevine.

Yes

Good salary and opportunities for progression into any area you feel you would enjoy. Work-life balance available. The people are also fantastic, I’ve never worked with such helpful, humorous and caring people that are at Nestle. Job roles are defined well and clear. Safety is a top priority and people feel valued.

Be yourself. If you have an interesting hobby, share info of it while applying as this will make you stand out from others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, you will be overwhelmed by the responses you receive - keep asking questions, if you disagree or do not fully understand, ask.