Packaging apprentice Review

Trialling new packaging material on production lines, creating materials for data bases, creating new packaging for new products on site and working with suppliers to achieve cost savings and improve environmental impact of the company.

Yes, I was straight out of school so have learnt loads of new skills from general workings of a large company and how a business operates to more role specific skills around knowledge of materials and processes. Also I've had opportunities to develop leadership skills, presenting and report writing.

I enjoy the work a lot, it's very varied and I'm given the freedom to take on extra responsibility and independence in areas. However the social aspect at the site I'm at is lacking and nearly all apprentices and apprentice events are held in a different site so I can't attend.

for the first few months it felt poorly organised and there wasn't much to do however now I'm over a year in there is lots to keep me busy and projects to work on. Planning development in accordance with your goals and course is on your own shoulders though which has positives and negatives.

They're very supportive, I've got various people I report to who are all very understanding and helpful whenever I reach out and there are also more people in the business who are focused on looking after apprentices who are always available to talk to and have routine catch ups with you.

Quite a lot, there are bi monthly catch ups to offer support and check on your progress towards to training goals to make sure the apprenticeship is varied and giving you all the experience you require, they are also available to reach to at any time for further support if needed. They also give access to the universities student support systems which I've never used but are there if needed.

The training was part created by my employer so it is very specific to the role I'm working in, there are of course parts that are less directly related to my role or focusing on materials I don't work with but for the most part it's all relevant content.

There are very few social activities available to get involved in and I believe due to there being an older workforce at the site i'm located in. I do get to go to quite a lot of professional networking events though such as conferences, factory visits, supplier visits and more.

Yes

They are a huge company with loads of career development options and are sure to set you up for a good future especially if you stay within the business but also provides you with great skills and looks great on your CV if you choose to leave. There are also good benefits, pay and support systems.

Just be yourself, once you get to interviews they're looking for people who will work well within the culture of nestle so as long as your passionate and friendly you're in with a good shot.