Data Science Specialist Review
at Toyota GB
Degree Apprenticeship
Data Analysis
Epsom
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
5 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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:
5/5
As a Data Science Apprentice and now as a Specialist, my role has involved supporting data-driven decision-making across the business by leveraging statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualisation techniques. On a day-to-day basis, I work with cross-functional teams to gather and clean data, explore patterns, and present actionable insights to the stakeholders involved.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship programme. The blend of hands-on work experience and structured learning has been incredibly valuable in building both my technical and professional skills. One of the highlights for me has been the positive and inclusive culture at Toyota – the people around me have made the experience genuinely enjoyable. Everyone has been approachable, supportive, and always willing to share knowledge, which has made it a great environment to learn and grow in.
Additionally, the support I've received from the university has been excellent. The important aspect is that the university listens to any feedback provided and always aims to improve the program, and additionally I've had consistent guidance from tutors and mentors throughout the programme, which was very useful.
Additionally, the support I've received from the university has been excellent. The important aspect is that the university listens to any feedback provided and always aims to improve the program, and additionally I've had consistent guidance from tutors and mentors throughout the programme, which was very useful.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, throughout my apprenticeship I have both learned new skills and significantly developed existing ones. I’ve gained hands-on experience with data science tools and platforms such as Python, PySpark and SQL. I’ve also developed a stronger understanding of machine learning techniques, including regression, classification, and clustering, and how to apply these methods to solve real-world business problems.
Beyond technical skills, I’ve improved my ability to interpret complex data and communicate insights effectively to different audiences. I’ve also grown in project management, stakeholder communication, and working collaboratively across departments. Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me become more confident and well-rounded as a data science professional.
Beyond technical skills, I’ve improved my ability to interpret complex data and communicate insights effectively to different audiences. I’ve also grown in project management, stakeholder communication, and working collaboratively across departments. Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me become more confident and well-rounded as a data science professional.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Overall, the programme has become well-structured and effective, especially as it progressed. As one of the first apprentices on the data science pathway, there were some initial inconsistencies in the organisation and delivery of the content. However, the programme leaders were very open to feedback and actively worked with us to address the challenges we faced.
Their willingness to listen and make meaningful adjustments has led to noticeable improvements in the structure and support provided, which I believe will greatly benefit future apprentices.
Their willingness to listen and make meaningful adjustments has led to noticeable improvements in the structure and support provided, which I believe will greatly benefit future apprentices.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I’ve received a great deal of support from my employer throughout the apprenticeship. My line manager and wider team at Toyota have been incredibly approachable, always willing to provide guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to get involved in meaningful projects.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I’ve received strong and consistent support from my training provider throughout the apprenticeship. Tutors have been responsive, approachable, and always willing to provide extra guidance when needed – whether that’s through one-to-one sessions, detailed feedback on assignments, or additional resources to deepen understanding.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification has been very helpful in strengthening my ability to perform in my role. The training has given me a strong foundation in key data science concepts such as data wrangling, machine learning, statistical analysis, and data visualisation – most of which I’ve been able to apply directly to my work at Toyota.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes, there are plenty of extra-curricular activities to get involved in at Toyota, which really helps create a strong sense of community and work-life balance. I’ve had the opportunity to be actively involved in the Sports & Social Committee, where I help organise social events that bring colleagues together outside of work.
In addition, I captain the Toyota cricket team and have led the organisation of charity cricket competitions, which have helped raise funds for great causes while encouraging team spirit and engagement across different departments.
In addition, I captain the Toyota cricket team and have led the organisation of charity cricket competitions, which have helped raise funds for great causes while encouraging team spirit and engagement across different departments.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Toyota GB to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would absolutely recommend Toyota to a friend because of the supportive, inclusive, and growth-focused culture. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed and encouraged to learn, contribute, and develop both personally and professionally. The company genuinely values its people and invests in their development, whether through structured learning, on-the-job opportunities, or mentorship.
Toyota also offers a great balance between work and community. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved beyond your role – whether that’s through social events, sports teams, or charitable initiatives – which creates a really positive and engaging environment.
As someone who started as an apprentice, I’ve seen first-hand how Toyota empowers early-career professionals, listens to feedback, and continuously improves. It’s a place where you can grow, make an impact, and enjoy the journey while doing so.
Toyota also offers a great balance between work and community. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved beyond your role – whether that’s through social events, sports teams, or charitable initiatives – which creates a really positive and engaging environment.
As someone who started as an apprentice, I’ve seen first-hand how Toyota empowers early-career professionals, listens to feedback, and continuously improves. It’s a place where you can grow, make an impact, and enjoy the journey while doing so.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Toyota GB?
My biggest tip would be to show genuine enthusiasm for learning and a real interest in the automotive industry, innovation, or data (depending on the role you’re applying for). Toyota values people who are curious, proactive, and open to growth – so don’t worry about knowing everything upfront. Focus on your willingness to develop and contribute to a team.
