At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in cider production and various business roles.
- Company: Join Thatchers, a family-run cider company with over a century of heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive apprenticeship wage, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Full-time role with flexible shifts and a supportive learning environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career while learning the art of cider making from experts.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
We have an exciting opportunity for passionate, driven individuals to join our award-winning Thatchers Talent Programme as a Next Generation Apprentice. Whether you're eager to kickstart your career in a commercial role or dive into the heart of cider production, this apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to learn the Thatchers way, developing hands-on skills alongside University Centre Weston.
Since 1904, Thatchers has been crafting some of the world's best cider. Now in our fifth generation of family cider makers, we take huge pride in our Somerset roots. We've grown significantly thanks to major investments in marketing, people development, state-of-the-art technology, and our world-class cider mill - but we're just getting started. Joining Thatchers as an apprentice means becoming part of one of the fastest-growing, family-run businesses with huge opportunities to develop your skills and career.
As part of this unique role, you'll be gaining hands-on experience across our entire business, including:
- Supporting customer services, finance, marketing, and sales activities
- Learning every stage of the cidermaking & packaging process, from pressing the apples to preparing our ciders for distribution
You’ll combine practical, real-world learning with high-quality academic development, receiving all the training, support & development you’ll need to succeed. Starting a career is a big step, and we’re here to support you every step of the way through:
- Full Thatchers Company Induction
- Regular check-ins with our Talent Team
- One-to-one support from your line managers and college assessors
- A tailored training plan to help you grow
- Opportunities to attend business events and networking sessions
In return, we ask for hard work, dedication and trust. We want you to own your apprenticeship and share the same enthusiasm and passion for our business as we do.
As a Next Generation Apprentice, you’ll be based at our home of Myrtle Farm in Somerset on a full-time basis, completing a Level 4 Associate Project Management Apprenticeship (delivered by University Centre Weston), all whilst embarking on a business-wide journey, gaining knowledge & practical skills across the full spectrum of Thatchers, from Pip to Pint. Specifically, you will:
- Understand the full production process of our cider, from pip to pint
- Learn how to carry out essential quality control checks
- Discover what it takes to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot on our state-of-the-art production lines
- Work with lab technicians and cider experts to learn the science of cider making
- Understand how we maintain high standards of health & safety, hygiene and positive waste management
- Handle inbound and outbound customer calls
- Use our bespoke IT software
- Manage customer orders and promotional items/POS
- Support our finance department
- Assist with cider installation requests and repairs
- Work with our marketing team to sample and activate our brand
- Gain hands-on experience selling to our customers in the Thatchers Cider Shop
- Get out into trade with our sales team in the field
- Collaborate with category insight managers, learning about data in the marketplace
- Complete project work with our Talent Team
This is a full-time role based at our home, Myrtle Farm in Somerset and will sometimes include shift work as part of your rotations (days/nights/weekends depending on your age and department).
What are we looking for? You will need:
- GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent)
- Good IT skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well as part of a team
- A proactive, can-do attitude
- Great attention to detail
- Flexibility and resilience in changing situations
- A thirst for knowledge and the drive to go the extra mile
Personal Qualities that Shine at Thatchers:
- Confident and great with people
- Motivated and eager to learn
- Smartly presented
- Passionate about understanding new equipment, processes or technology
- Trustworthy and hardworking
- Able to build strong relationships across teams
- Proactive approach
- Flexible and resilient in changing situations
What are the Perks?
- Above average apprenticeship wage
- Shift bonus available when working in our operations facilities
- Discounts at our Cider Shop (for those over 18) and our pub, The Railway Inn
- Student discount card
- Career development opportunities within a stable, expanding business
- Additional training opportunities to develop your personal skills
Thatchers is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants.
Next Generation Apprentice in Winscombe employer: Thatchers Cider Company
Thatchers Cider is an exceptional employer, offering a unique Next Generation Apprenticeship that combines hands-on experience with academic development at our picturesque Myrtle Farm in Somerset. As part of our award-winning Thatchers Talent Programme, apprentices benefit from tailored training plans, one-to-one support, and opportunities for career growth within a family-run business that values hard work and dedication. Join us to kickstart your career in a thriving environment where you can learn the art of cider making while enjoying competitive wages and additional perks.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Next Generation Apprentice in Winscombe
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Apprenticeships in agriculture are all about practical skills, so jump at any chance to volunteer or get involved on local farms. Attend open days or agricultural shows in your area to meet professionals and learn hands-on techniques—it's a fantastic way to show your enthusiasm and learn about what different roles entail.
✨Join Agricultural Communities
Look for local farming or agricultural clubs and networks, as these are great for meeting like-minded people and industry veterans. Platforms like Facebook often have groups dedicated to agriculture where you can ask questions and seek guidance—plus, they might have job leads specifically for apprenticeships.
✨Take Initiative with Local Farms
Don't wait for job postings—reach out directly to farms in your area. Offer to help with seasonal tasks or internships, and when the time comes for them to take on apprentices, they might remember your initiative and commitment. Personal connections can make all the difference in securing that apprenticeship.
✨Apply Directly through Thatchers Cider Company
When you're ready to apply, head over to our website to see any apprenticeship opportunities with Thatchers Cider Company. Our application process is straightforward, and showing your interest by applying directly is a great way to stand out—plus, you might just land that apprenticeship to kick-start your career in agriculture!
We think you need these skills to ace Next Generation Apprentice in Winscombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Agriculture:When applying for an apprenticeship in agriculture, let your enthusiasm shine through! Talk about any farming experiences, courses you've taken, or projects you’ve been involved in that got you excited about this field. Don't hold back on what drives you – genuine passion can make you stand out.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Studies:Make sure to emphasise any relevant skills or knowledge from your studies that relate to agriculture. This could include anything from understanding crop cycles to machinery operation. If you've got any practical skills, like operating farm equipment or conducting soil tests, be sure to mention those, as they’ll show you're ready to dive into hands-on learning.
Tailor Your CV to Agriculture:Your CV should reflect your journey in agriculture so far. Include any specific coursework, projects, or volunteer work related to farming or environmental science. We love seeing a tailored CV that speaks to the apprenticeship role, so ensure it demonstrates your eagerness to learn and grow in this field.
Be Clear About Your Learning Goals:In your cover letter, take some time to outline what you hope to learn through this apprenticeship. Being specific about your goals will show Thatchers Cider Company that you’re committed to your personal development and that you’ve put thought into how this opportunity fits into your career plans. Let’s make sure they know you’re ready to soak up all the knowledge you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thatchers Cider Company
✨Know Your Crops
Brush up on the specific crops or livestock relevant to the apprenticeship at Thatchers Cider Company. Understanding their growing cycles, care requirements, and common challenges can really impress your interviewers. Consider bringing up any personal experiences or coursework related to agriculture that highlights your knowledge!
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Since this is an apprenticeship, they’ll likely be interested in your practical skills. Be prepared to discuss any previous work you've done in agriculture or related fields. If you’ve participated in farm volunteer work or projects, make sure to highlight that experience to show your dedication and foundational skills.
✨Ask About the Tools
Don't shy away from asking questions about the tools and technologies used at Thatchers Cider Company. Familiarity with common agricultural tools and practices can set you apart from others, so ask about the equipment they use and express your interest in learning to use them effectively during your apprenticeship.
✨Show Your Passion for Learning
As you’re vying for an apprenticeship, demonstrating your eagerness to learn is key. Share your motivation for wanting to get into agriculture, whether it's a family background, school projects, or just a love for the outdoors. Letting your enthusiasm shine through will make you memorable in the selection process!
