Creative Digital Design Degree Apprentice Review

I work within the Unilever Homecare Packaging Design team. I specifically sit in the creative team so that includes producing sketches and high quality visuals for our design projects. I work with engineers and strategic designers to produce high quality packaging for our consumers. I work collaboratively with global teams to create consumer focussed packaging experiences.

I have hugely developed my hard skills such as sketching and adobe suite skills but I have also massively developed my soft skills such as team work, communication and creativity. I have learnt many new skills including learning to use new machinery and learning new professional skills. Alongside the development of my skills, I have also grown in confidence which my manager has helped slowly build over time by gradually increasing the responsibility within my role.

My programme has opened a lot of new opportunities for me and my future after my apprenticeship. My manager and mentors have been very supportive throughout my development. I have met any people so far on my career journey who have helped make my experience very enjoyable. I have the opportunity to learn lots of different aspects of the company and FMCG industry which is really exciting as an apprentice.

The programme is well structured however there is no fixed placements throughout the 3 years. As my programme is new, not many sectors offer it so I am in the same team for the whole duration of my apprenticeship. However my manager has recognised this and offered for me to experience other parts within the design team which will maximise my learning and experience throughout my apprenticeship. The university course is quite separate to my role however you can tailor it to your job as much or as little as you wish.

I recieve lots of support from my manager. They understand it takes a long time to adjust to full time work especially at such a young age so they provide lots of support throughout weekly check-in meetings. Everyone is very approachable and very willing to answer any questions or queries. As university work can be time consuming, especially running up to deadlines, my manager is very accommodating to offering extra time and support.

I get lots of support from the University however it can depend on the teacher. They give us lots of time for self-directed study and 1-1 questions and support. They are very accommodating to giving extensions if that is required and extra support running up to deadlines as they understand it is challenging balancing a part time degree and a full tie job.

As they have little insight into how Unilever works and the projects I am working on they cant provide any specific support and training however they have provided adobe suite workshops which has been very valuable in bringing into my role. I have learnt new soft skills such as presentation skills throughout the course which has been very helpful when doing presentations at work.

Unilever offers a lot of extra curricular activities. There are many sport teams and clubs to enjoy inside the work day and also outside. Everyone is very social so we socialise outside of working hours which is really nice when you are new to the area and trying to build a circle. There is also lots of non sporting activities like baking and crafting which many people in the office meet up to do which can be a nice break from the working day. Unilever is big on networking so there are plenty of networking events, formal and informal, to help build your network. This happens especially between other apprentices and members of the future careers population which is great for making new friends.

Yes

At Unilever you are making real change and can see your work on shelf in real life. As such a young apprentice this is really rewarding and inspiring. Also, Unilever provides an inviting and social place to work which makes a much easier transition into the working world from being at school full time.

Just be you and confident. Your employer is looking if you will fit into the environment so don't stress too much about what your CV says on paper and just be your truest self as that is what they are more focused on. Your passion, drive and desire to learn is more important than what anything says on a piece of paper. Ask lots of questions as everyone is willing to help and offer support.