L6 Chemical Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

I typically start my day working in the pilot plant, gaining hands-on experience that directly correlates to the content of my degree. I then have lunch with my team and spend the afternoon either back in the pilot plant, in the lab (conducting research on a smaller scale) or in meetings.

Both my technical proficiency and confidence has improved significantly since starting my apprenticeship. I have learnt a variety of technical skills through my degree modules, internal courses and on-the-job learning. I have also had multiple opportunities to work on leadership and team-building skills.

I enjoy most of my day-to-day responsibilities. I enter a new team every year which keeps things fresh and exciting. I feel like I am constantly learning, both in the academic and work-based parts of my apprenticeship. I would also say that I have received a lot of support consistently throughout the programme which has opened up even more opportunities to me.

I have personally not been affected by any issues. However, I am aware of other apprentices who have had to reach out to Unilever to speak about university clashes/workload. However, these are usually handled efficiently and effectively.

A lot! Every manager I have had has been extremely understanding of my university workload and have adjusted the amount of work I am given at different points in the year to reflect this. I also have a number of people I can reach out to for various issues surrounding my career, degree and other apprenticeship matters.

My training provider schedules regular calls with me to update on my progress and check in on my well-being. They are also very easy to reach out to and have responded to any issues or questions that I have raised very promptly.

Very well. My degree allows me a greater depth of knowledge to support the work that I do on my apprenticeship. It provides me with a strong foundation of relevant knowledge which has been vital for several of my work projects.

The apprentices at my site often organise social events and catch up throughout the work day. There are also several clubs to get involved in onsite (e.g. badminton, golf, chess, football etc). In addition to this, teams often organise meals and drinks semi-frequently throughout the year.

Yes

I have received invaluable work experience and support from my time at Unilever, this has not only strengthened my academic abilities but has also greatly improved my soft-skills.

I would say to familiarise ourself with the company. What do they do? What do they promote? What are their core values? Other than that, be yourself! :)