Level 4 Sustainability Professional Review
at Sodexo UK
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Sustainability
Salford
Review Submitted: March 2026
Overall Rating
4.9 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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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
My apprenticeship is centred around Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability (CR&S), supporting how the business responds to environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities. It combines strategic understanding with practical delivery, allowing me to contribute to projects that create both commercial value and positive social impact.
The programme involves developing knowledge of sustainability policy drivers, governance frameworks, and industry expectations, while also applying this learning to real CR&S initiatives such as fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and social value delivery. I am building an understanding of how CR&S aligns with wider business objectives and regulatory requirements, as well as how organisations demonstrate responsible practice.
The programme involves developing knowledge of sustainability policy drivers, governance frameworks, and industry expectations, while also applying this learning to real CR&S initiatives such as fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and social value delivery. I am building an understanding of how CR&S aligns with wider business objectives and regulatory requirements, as well as how organisations demonstrate responsible practice.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I genuinely really enjoy my programme, particularly because it feels purposeful. Working within Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability means that what I do has a clear social impact, which motivates me day to day. I find it rewarding to understand how ESG agendas influence the industry and then see how that translates into real initiatives, whether that’s supporting fundraising, social value delivery, or wider CR&S strategy.
I especially enjoy the balance between learning and applying. I’m not just studying the theory behind sustainability, governance, and policy drivers. I’m actively seeing how they shape business decisions and project outcomes. That practical exposure has helped me build confidence and understand the bigger picture of responsible business.
I especially enjoy the balance between learning and applying. I’m not just studying the theory behind sustainability, governance, and policy drivers. I’m actively seeing how they shape business decisions and project outcomes. That practical exposure has helped me build confidence and understand the bigger picture of responsible business.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, definitely. I’ve developed both new skills and strengthened existing ones through the programme.
I’ve built a much stronger understanding of Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability and how ESG priorities influence decision-making within the business. That strategic awareness is new for me, particularly understanding policy drivers, governance frameworks, and how social value commitments translate into practical delivery.
I’ve also developed my research and analytical skills. I’m more confident reviewing industry guidance, interpreting sustainability principles, and applying that knowledge to real projects rather than just understanding it in theory.
In terms of existing skills, I’ve strengthened my communication and stakeholder engagement. Supporting CR&S initiatives and fundraising activities has helped me become more confident in articulating the purpose behind our work and explaining its social impact. I’ve also improved my reflective writing through my portfolio, which has helped me think more critically about my development and how my work aligns with the apprenticeship standards.
Overall, I feel more commercially aware and more capable of linking social impact to business strategy than I did at the start of the programme.
I’ve built a much stronger understanding of Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability and how ESG priorities influence decision-making within the business. That strategic awareness is new for me, particularly understanding policy drivers, governance frameworks, and how social value commitments translate into practical delivery.
I’ve also developed my research and analytical skills. I’m more confident reviewing industry guidance, interpreting sustainability principles, and applying that knowledge to real projects rather than just understanding it in theory.
In terms of existing skills, I’ve strengthened my communication and stakeholder engagement. Supporting CR&S initiatives and fundraising activities has helped me become more confident in articulating the purpose behind our work and explaining its social impact. I’ve also improved my reflective writing through my portfolio, which has helped me think more critically about my development and how my work aligns with the apprenticeship standards.
Overall, I feel more commercially aware and more capable of linking social impact to business strategy than I did at the start of the programme.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I feel the programme is well structured overall, with a clear balance between on-the-job learning and qualification requirements. The expectations are clear and I understand how my portfolio links to the apprenticeship standards. At times it can feel busy balancing work and study, but the structure helps keep me on track.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a high level of support from my employer. I’m given meaningful responsibility within CR&S projects, as well as guidance when needed. There is encouragement to develop, ask questions, and take ownership of my learning, which has really helped build my confidence.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
My training provider is supportive and provides useful resources and guidance for completing assignments and portfolio work. Feedback is constructive and helps me improve. Occasionally I need to be proactive in reaching out, but support is there when I need it.
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 strengthened my understanding of sustainability principles, governance, and policy drivers, which directly supports my role in CR&S. It helps me understand the “why” behind what we do, allowing me to contribute more confidently and strategically.
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 opportunities to get involved beyond day-to-day responsibilities. This includes social activities, networking events, and initiatives linked to fundraising and social value. These opportunities help build relationships across the business and create a stronger sense of community.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Sodexo UK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Sodexo UK to a friend because it offers strong development opportunities, particularly for apprentices. There is a genuine focus on Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability, and you’re given the chance to contribute to meaningful initiatives rather than just observing. I’ve felt supported in my growth and trusted with real responsibility, which has made the experience both rewarding and motivating.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Sodexo UK?
I would advise applicants to really understand Sodexo’s values, especially around social impact and sustainability, as this is a big part of the organisation’s culture. Be prepared to show initiative and demonstrate how you align with responsible business practices. It’s also important to be open to learning and proactive in seeking opportunities, as there are many ways to get involved and develop if you take ownership of your progression.
