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Course Overview

Technical Operators work in the manufacturing sector of the food and drink industry. They typically work on production lines in manufacturing plants, but will spend some time offline while working on activities such as new product development. They have both knowledge and skills in preventative maintenance activities and Continuous Improvement (CI) techniques, which are essential to maintaining and improving productivity in food and drink manufacturing sites.

You may attend college to cover some modular sessions. You will have regular meetings with your assessor approx. every four to six weeks and gain technical experience on the job.

What You Will Study

At the end of the programme apprentices will be able to:

  • Understand health and safety systems, quality systems and Good Manufacturing Processes (GMP)
  • Interrogate data to identify trends
  • Carry out basic fault finding
  • Carry out routine and specialist maintenance of equipment
  • Participate in external auditon
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of quality control.
  • Work as an effective member of a team and exhibit strong communication skills.

In addition apprentices will have developed an understanding of continuous improvement processes used in the industry.

  • Attendance Expectations

    There may be a requirement to attend some sessions notification will be given in advance of these. You will be expected to meet with your assessor every six to eight weeks.

  • How You Will Be Assessed

    Learners must achieve all KSB (Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours) standards to enter Gateway for EPA (End Point Assessment). The KSB set out what learners need to know and need to do in order to perform effectively in their role at work. These are described in learning outcomes in units of assessment.

  • Entry Requirements

    Apprentices without English and Maths at Level 2 must achieve Level 2 English and Maths prior to taking their end-point assessment.

  • Fee Information

    Please contact the Apprenticeship Recruitment Team on 01924 789469 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Further Study

    On completion of this qualification learners will be in an advantageous position to consider a Higher Level Apprenticeship (Level 4/5).

    Apprenticeships that should be considered include:

    • Management Apprenticeship
    • Food Technologist