customer service
apprenticeship scheme

stories

Alton Strachan, Sales Operation Coordinator, joined October 2023

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Out of the three subjects I studied at Sixth form, business was the one that I enjoyed the most and wanted to either study at university or get an apprenticeship within a business learning all about the world of business on the job.

My two years at sixth form were during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed me to really take some time and decide if University was the next step for me once I had finished Sixth form. I thought that the right decision for me was to gain first hand experience working day to day in a business environment.

An appealing factor choosing the apprenticeship route is you are earning whilst learning. I found the job offer on the government website and thought this is a good place for me to start my working life, If I got the job.

Shortly after applying, the process of interviews started. The more I learnt about the role, the more I thought it would suit me. I was so pleased when I was told I’d been offered the apprenticeship and would be able to complete a Level 3 qualification alongside it.

Just over a year later, after joining British Sugar I know I made the right decision. A big part of this is because of the business that I work for, it is an amazing business with people that really want to help me reach the goals I want to reach from a job perspective as well as a personal growth perspective too.

I feel like I have learnt so much already in the space of a year and still have so much more to learn. I get on well with the colleagues around me, whenever I have a question, they are always happy to help or walk through things with me.

I feel valued here at British Sugar, which is really important to me, I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship with British Sugar.

I’m excited to see what the future holds for me whilst I am here.

stories

Mickey Ghebremeskel, Farm Support Coordinator, previous Customer Service Apprentice, joined 2020

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Embarking on the journey of a Customer Service Apprenticeship at British Sugar has been a transformative experience for me. My initial aspiration was to explore a career in business management, fuelled by a passion for management. However, circumstances shifted, leading me to reconsider my options and opt for a broader path in workplaces. University was not the route for me; instead, I sought a practical, hands-on learning experience that an apprenticeship could provide.

Joining British Sugar in November 2020 as a customer service apprentice marked the beginning of my journey. Working across different functions within the business, I immersed myself in the customer service apprenticeship programme, gaining not only theoretical knowledge but also developing strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of the business.

The experience at British Sugar exceeded my expectations, offering me a sense of value and impact in my role. The opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals in a friendly environment further enriched my learning journey. As I completed my apprenticeship, I transitioned into a role as a member of the British Sugar Services Associate in the Agriculture department.

Reflecting on this journey, I wholeheartedly recommend the apprenticeship programme at British Sugar to anyone seeking a dynamic and enriching learning experience. Now, as a full-fledged member of the British Sugar team, I continue to appreciate the positive impact of my apprenticeship, grateful for the invaluable experience it has provided.