Product Development Apprentice Review
at Premier Foods
Degree Apprenticeship
Manufacturing
Worksop
Review Submitted: April 2026
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
An average day would be checking and replying to emails, working on projects by either making samples in the kitchen, creating nutritional’s including HFSS score and Traffic Lights alongside costings, talking to suppliers for new ingredients and generally working with my team on in house projects like shelf life, peripheral teams. Each week I also set aside time to complete university modules. Alongside this I also go on factory tours and attend sessions that I can shadow, eg an audit.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
As an apprentice I really enjoy the programme. Being able to learn at university and then come back to work to put into practical skills really helps with my learning and understandings of the industry. All the people I work with are very supportive and helpful with my learning and are eager to work with me to achieve my best.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
During my apprenticeship, I have developed a wide range of new skills while also strengthening existing ones. I have gained a much deeper understanding of how the business operates, including key internal processes and systems. I have developed a broader understanding of the entire food supply chain, from farm to fork, and how each stage contributes to the final product. This has helped me see how my role fits into the wider business and has enhanced my commercial awareness.
In addition, I have gained valuable insight into the full new product development (NPD) process, from the initial concept stage through to product launch. This experience has given me a better appreciation of cross-functional working and the importance of collaboration across departments. Through my university studies alongside the apprenticeship, I have also developed academic skills such as effective referencing and research techniques. Furthermore, I have strengthened important soft skills, including using professional communication tools such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, and building confidence when speaking with colleagues at different levels of seniority. Overall, the apprenticeship has significantly contributed to both my professional and personal development, preparing me well for future progression within the industry.
In addition, I have gained valuable insight into the full new product development (NPD) process, from the initial concept stage through to product launch. This experience has given me a better appreciation of cross-functional working and the importance of collaboration across departments. Through my university studies alongside the apprenticeship, I have also developed academic skills such as effective referencing and research techniques. Furthermore, I have strengthened important soft skills, including using professional communication tools such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, and building confidence when speaking with colleagues at different levels of seniority. Overall, the apprenticeship has significantly contributed to both my professional and personal development, preparing me well for future progression within the industry.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Very well organised
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Very Supportive. When I first started, I had a lot of 1-1s with my manager to settle me in and ask any questions, now I have a 1-1 to talk about University/ Projects every month.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I recieve support from my training provider when needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel that my qualification supports me well in performing my role, as it links academic learning with practical workplace experience. The knowledge and skills gained through my training provider help reinforce my understanding of business processes, product development, and professional working practices, which I can directly apply in my day-to-day role.
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 a range of extra-curricular activities available at work. There are various programmes that support social activities and promote employee wellbeing, including mental health discussions and awareness initiatives. The business also organises events such as conferences and Christmas socials, and there are many opportunities to attend external food and industry conferences where there is clear value and relevance to individual roles and development.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Premier Foods to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Premier Foods to a friend because it is genuinely a great place to work with supportive and approachable people. There are so many different roles and career pathways available, which allows you to explore new opportunities and progress within the business. As a large company with a wide range of well-known portfolios and products, there is always something new and interesting to work on. Everyone is extremely helpful, and the training provided is effective and well structured, making it easier to settle into your role and develop your skills. The business values feedback and actively uses it to improve, while also placing a strong focus on mental health and safety. Combined with competitive pay, Premier Foods offers a positive, inclusive, and rewarding working environment
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Premier Foods?
My advice would be to be yourself and don’t worry if you don’t know everything straight away. You will definitely learn new things on the job that you may not have come across before, and that’s completely okay. It’s normal to get some things wrong while you’re still learning, and people genuinely understand and support that. Everyone at Premier Foods is approachable and willing to help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions, get involved, and make the most of the opportunities available.
