At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in food and agriculture through practical placements.
- Company: Join MDS, a leading organisation in the food supply chain sector.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a paid apprenticeship and gain a recognised qualification.
- Other info: Dynamic two-year programme with multiple placements and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Kick-start your career in a vital industry with real impact from day one.
- Qualifications: Open to school leavers aged 18+, no prior experience needed, just enthusiasm!
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 21000 € per year.
Kick-start your career in the food, fresh produce and agriculture industry with the MDS School Leavers Programme. Applications are now open for our Autumn 2026 intake. If you are leaving school or college and want a practical alternative to university, this two-year paid programme offers the chance to learn on the job while earning a recognised supply chain qualification. The programme includes an 18-month apprenticeship, alongside practical experience with leading food and farming businesses.
During the programme, you will complete three 8-month placements with different companies, gaining hands-on experience in real roles that matter. Across your placements, you will build practical skills, confidence and industry insight. You may work in areas such as packhouse operations, supply chain and logistics, quality, technical support and more, giving you a strong foundation for a future career in the sector.
Why choose MDS?
- Earn while you learn with a paid apprenticeship wage
- Work with leading food and agriculture businesses in your region
- Study for a recognised supply chain qualification as part of your apprenticeship
- Gain valuable, transferable experience across multiple roles
- Build a strong network and boost your employability in a vital industry
Who we are looking for:
- School or college leavers aged 18 or over
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to learn and work in practical roles
- A strong interest in the food supply chain and a desire to build a career from day one
- No prior experience in food and agriculture is required - just energy, commitment and a willingness to get stuck in
- Must have, or be working towards, a full UK driving licence, as the programme involves rotational placements across rural locations
Additional Skills
- Programme length: Two years
- Placements: Three 8-month placements with different businesses
- Apprenticeship: 18-month supply chain apprenticeship included within the programme
Location: Lincolnshire, West Sussex
Salary: £21,000
Contract, dates and working times: Fixed term, Full-time
How to apply: Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Prospects until 12 September 2026. Don't forget to mention Prospects to employers when you contact them. Closing date: Continuous recruitment.
Employer profile: MDS is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1986 by a group of forward-thinking growers concerned about the shortage of skilled managers within the industry. Today, our membership includes over 60 businesses across the food supply chain and continues to grow year on year. Through collaboration with these industry-leading companies, MDS has helped fast-track the careers of more than 600 graduates.
MDS offers structured development programmes designed to launch careers in the food supply chain. The MDS Graduate Scheme is a two-year programme made up of up to four rotational placements with different Member businesses. MDS matches Trainees to placements to provide the broadest possible experience across the industry, helping them explore their strengths and interests while developing leadership skills. Alongside their placements, Trainees work towards a Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management accredited by the Chartered Management Institute.
New for 2026, the MDS School Leavers Programme offers an alternative to university for those looking to start a career in the food industry straight from school or college. This paid apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with leading businesses with the opportunity to study for a recognised supply chain qualification, giving participants practical skills and industry knowledge from day one.
MDS Graduate Scheme in London employer: MDS Ltd
MDS is an exceptional employer for those looking to kick-start their careers in the food and agriculture industry, offering a unique two-year paid apprenticeship programme that combines hands-on experience with leading businesses and a recognised supply chain qualification. With a strong focus on employee growth, MDS provides structured development opportunities across multiple placements, fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages learning and networking within a vital sector. Located in Lincolnshire and West Sussex, MDS not only supports your professional journey but also connects you with a diverse range of industry leaders, ensuring a rewarding and meaningful career path from day one.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MDS Graduate Scheme in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the companies you're applying to! Research their values, culture, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past participants of the MDS programme on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to the food supply chain and your motivations for joining the MDS Graduate Scheme. Mock interviews with friends can really boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about starting your career with us in the food industry.
We think you need these skills to ace MDS Graduate Scheme in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the food supply chain and why you’re excited about this opportunity.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your interest in the food and agriculture industry. Mention any relevant experiences or skills, even if they’re from school projects or part-time jobs, to show us you’re ready to dive in!
Show Your Commitment:We’re looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn. In your application, share examples of how you've demonstrated commitment in the past, whether it’s through school activities, volunteering, or other interests that showcase your dedication.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at MDS Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research MDS and the food supply chain industry. Understand their values, the types of businesses they work with, and what the MDS Graduate Scheme entails. This will show your enthusiasm and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine interest in the food and agriculture sector. Share any relevant experiences or projects from school or college that demonstrate your commitment to learning and working in this field. Enthusiasm can set you apart!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the types of placements you'll experience or how MDS supports your development. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the programme.
✨Be Yourself
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way. Let your personality shine through, and don’t hesitate to share your motivations for wanting to join the MDS Graduate Scheme. They’re looking for enthusiastic individuals ready to dive in!
