Food Technologist Apprentice Review

In my role I am a Food Technologist, working with site production teams and other teams within the business to ensure safe, high quality, legal food is produced. I also work closely with our suppliers to ensure the materials they are providing us with also meet these high standards. I also do work to ensure we meet our customers standards, completing risk assessments which ensure our products stay safe.

I have learnt lots of new skills. When I began my apprenticeship I had never previously held another job (other than a small weekend job), and therefore I was starting fresh. I had learn lots of academic skills but also other important social skills like teamwork and how to lead teams and projects.

I really enjoy the programme. it is very hard work, and as I am getting closer to the end it is only getting more challenging, however it is very rewarding. I really feel like I am making a difference in the job that I am doing and it is therefore very enjoyable.

The programme is very well organised. Everything is well spread out so you can focus on each module at a time to make sure your effort is well placed for the course. Receiving 20% study time also hugely benefits this so I have a fair chance to complete the work I am required to do.

My employer is hugely supportive. They ensure I have time to complete my assignments and are always happy to send me on more courses to further improve my knowledge and skills in the areas I struggle with, or particularly enjoy. They are also always happy to share knowledge and skills that they have to help me out.

When working towards my qualifications my employer provides me with support to ensure my knowledge is of a good level that I can excel in my studies and assignments required for my qualifications. They are all very open to share knowledge and experience to further assist me in this area.

My qualification provides me with the academic and scientific understanding to perform better in my role. They have also helped me to perform better as I have a good understanding and therefore feel more confident to make decisions and recommendations to people in my work place. I also feel I am more respected for having this knowledge.

At my work I have previously been the site charity champion, raising money for Together for Short Lives. I am now a part of a group called 'Premier Voice', where a group from all different parts of the factory come together to discuss issues and suggestions to improve the factory.

Yes

Premier Foods provides good opportunities for learning and developing skills. Although manufacturing can be a very difficult environment to work in, particularly as a young female, the management are very supportive and understanding of this and will ensure that this does not affect you too much in your job or apprenticeship.

I would advise that people try to get some work experience in any area of the food industry prior to applying. This will show a genuine interest in the food industry, and provide you with things to discuss in your interviews. It will also show you are hard working - something very important when doing an apprenticeship.