What does a commerical degree apprentice do?

As a Commercial Degree Apprentice, I rotate through different placements each year over a three year degree programme. This allows me to gain hands on experience across various functions such as Category, Sales, Marketing and New Product Development (NPD) - helping me build a well-rounded understanding of how a business operates from both a strategic and commercial perspective.

After you qualified, did it take long to find a job?

I applied for my apprenticeship while studying for my A Levels. The whole process from applying to completing all the interviews and assessment centres took around six months. My school was supportive and made sure I had time to attend interviews and prepare properly.

How did you end up in this job?

My brother also completed a degree apprenticeship, so I was already aware of the benefits of taking this route. I decided to apply through several job sites and received great support from my career’s advisor, which really helped me secure my place.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing this career?

Go for it! It can be challenging at times, but the support you receive from both your workplace and university makes a huge difference. The experience you gain is invaluable — you’ll finish with three years of industry experience and a degree, without the student debt. The benefits far outweigh the challenges, and it’s a fantastic way to kickstart your career.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The best part of my job is meeting new people. You build strong friendships both through studying at university and within the workplace. At Samworth Brothers, there are so many different schemes and apprenticeships, so you’re always surrounded by people who are in the same position or have been through it before - the support network is incredible.

I also love that my role gives me the chance to travel to different sites across the UK and see firsthand how our businesses and brands operate. It’s a great way to learn, connect with others, and understand the bigger picture of how everything comes together.