Hands on experience is what apprentice Alfie Crown was after when he left school. And that's exactly what he loves about his apprenticeship scheme at the Nestlé Purina factory in Wisbech.
This week is National Apprenticeship Week, and 20-year-old Alfie is now into his second year with the scheme.
"I did A-levels but I've always been good at working with my hands and hands on learning, so it made sense to do an apprenticeship in engineering."
As well as learning in the factory, all apprentices with Nestlé are able to join a university or college to attend lessons and lectures in their field, as well as meet other apprentices from other sites and businesses across Nestlé.
"It's been great", said Alfie, whose course is four-years, "as I get to work and learn on the job but also get away for three-month or four-week stints to the North West Training Council in Liverpool.
"The mentors I've had at Nestlé have been outstanding. They are patient and experienced and are always happy to give me the time and answer all my questions. It has been great." Once Alfie has completed the four-year course he will have a Level 3 in Engineering Food and Drink qualification and skills which will last time a lifetime.
Alfie said: "Some people have worked here for 30 years which shows what a good place it is to work. For anyone who is thinking about engineering an apprenticeship is great. It's a mix of hands-on experience for those with a problem solving mind and there is course work to do too. I enjoy the job and being an apprentice with a huge organisation such as Nestlé is really good."
Applications are open for level 3 apprenticeships with Nestlé until Sunday 13th February. To find out more about the opportunities on offer and apply visit www.nestleacademy.co.uk/apprentices/advanced-apprenticeships-l3/