Labelling Assistant Review

Everyone I had the chance to meet during my time at the co-op were very inviting and I was made to feel part of the team from day one. I was given a great level of support and learn valuable information relating to running a food business and the different departments that you wouldn't get working for a smaller company. I think its a great opportunity if you get a chance to take part in placement especially if it is at the co-op.

Even though part of my placement took place online I still had constant communication from my line manager and was able to contact any of my team if I need help with queries. I was also given my own projects and work to do which allowed me to feel like I was in a full time working position rather than just on a placement. I was also able to as question and get involved in team talks, voicing my own opinion when needed.

There was always a constant communication and support from my line manager. This meant I always felt like I had someone to talk to for guidance or help if or when i needed it. My line manager and I had a catch up call everyday while working from home just to make sure there was enough work to do for the day and to see how and what we had been up too. This made settling in a lot easier.

No two days were the same while on placement as each day involved meetings with different people in the organisation. If not in meetings a got the chance to carry out artwork checks on the monthly magazines, customer quieries or checking current labelling on products to make sure they were correct and following the legal guidelines. Its great that you are given the chance to work on current products and are allowed to work independtly.

During my placement I was given responsibility over many different tasks that were part of my job description. I think its a very important aspect of the co-op as a placement opportunity as you are given the respect and trust as you would if it was a permanent full time job role which are treated like an adult. Whether that's carrying out a project or helping to run a food line with other members of your team.

The skills developed during my time at the co-op are irreplacable and extremely valuable as they cant be learnt through studies or even during a full time job. During the placement the managers are very passionate about you getting the most out of the 12 month opportunity. This means you get the chance to learn about other teams outside your job role and attend regular lunch and learns that teach about important aspects of the food industry not just in the organisation.

Unlike most placement opportunities you have a great cohort of other students in exactly the same position. There were 9 placement opportunities which meant we had a great network of support. I know this is not the case for other placements as they tend to only have one opening, which for me made the Co-op stand out from the rest. We frequently went out for drinks and had regular meetings on teams. Not only this you get the chance to live with other students if you are not from the area.

The placement opportunity at the Co-op was based at the headquarters in the heart of Manchester city centre. This meant that there were a large selection of bars and restaurants to chose from. Not only this Manchester is known for its vast student areas which have unique clubs and shops. You get the chance to explore a brand new city and the history that comes with it. Close to the office are two vast transport networks that link the city to neighbouring areas.