Data Science Degree Apprentice Review
at Unilever
Degree Apprenticeship
Science, Data Analysis
Port Sunlight
Review Submitted: February 2025
Overall Rating
3.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
As a Data Science Apprentice my main responsibilities include creating dashboards, models and apps to generate data-driven insights, and upskilling and encouraging teams to collect and store their data more efficiently. This is done using a variety of platforms such as Power Apps, Power BI, Python, R, SharePoint, and Excel. Each day typically involves a combination of meetings and independent work.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy that my programme has given me the chance to learn a wider variety of skills and put these into practice straight away. The variety means I don't get bored working on the same things and the teams I have worked with are always supportive and friendly which helps ensure projects are enjoyable to work on.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
The apprenticeship has given me the chance to learn a wide range of new skills both in the data science field (e.g. programming, visualisation, machine learning) and in general (e.g. teamwork and communication). These skills have been developed further by using them in my role on a daily basis.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
My programme is fairly well organised overall however, the order of topics learnt could've been better to ensure I started with easier topics then moved on to more complicated learning. It would also have been useful to have more clarity what would be expected in the apprenticeship as a whole from the start.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive lots of support from my employer. This comes from my manager, team, and experts in the field. It is a relatively easy process to get help from others whenever needed and it is always ensured that I have everything I need to be successful. There is also training and courses available for free from the company which prove useful.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
The support received from my training provider has varied based on modules and lecturers. Overall, the support hasn't been as prevalent as it should be with slow or unhelpful replies. Sometimes leaving me confused what was needed for assignments with nobody to ask for help. However, some lecturers were helpful and ensured we had all the support needed through help sessions and resources provided.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The content I have learnt from my training provider has given me a better understanding of data science and given me ideas that I have been able to apply in my role. However, not all of the topics are relevant in the role I am working in so I haven't been able to apply.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
My team has a monthly social evening which is nice as it helps get to know colleagues better (e.g. meals, bowling, etc.). There are also site wise clubs which you can take part in and there is the opportunity to attend relevant conferences and networking events with the company.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Unilever has a very friendly working environment which is both enjoyable to work in and encourages productivity. It values its employees and I have never come across anyone who isn't supportive. The work the company does is also varied so you can get experience in a range of areas and get involved in important work (e.g. increasing sustainability of products).
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?
Research the company's values and make sure you agree with these before applying as all the work you complete within the company will be stemming back to these. It is also important to have a passion for the area you are going to be working in and know about some of the products Unilever creates.
