Teenager Astrid Chagunda is cooking up a storm thanks to her Food and Drink Technology Foundation Apprenticeship.
The St Joseph’s College pupil enjoyed her Health and Food Technology Higher so much that she chose a Foundation Apprenticeship to gain practical experience in the field.
Astrid has already worked across several departments at food producers Brown Brothers Manufacturing Ltd in Kelloholm as part of her regular work placements.
A blend of school, college and work-based learning is the perfect recipe for Astrid as she aims to secure a place on her dream career.
The 17-year-old said: “I was offered the chance to do the Foundation Apprenticeship which allows me to learn about food technology in a more practical way. I knew the work experience would give me a solid foundation for the future.
“I would encourage anyone to choose a Foundation Apprenticeship. You get to sample a career you were thinking about going into, and the work experience allows you to get a true feel for the industry.”
When she isn’t working, going to school, or doing training at The Bridge in Dumfries, Astrid likes to unwind with her love of music. She plays several instruments.
She said: “The Foundation Apprenticeship has given me a good starting point for going to university. I’ve loved doing work placements every Thursday and I enjoy independent study.
“In five years’ time, I’d like to be working full-time in Food Production. Having an insight into how factories run and how production takes place has given me a good understanding and that’s all down to my Foundation Apprenticeship.”
St Joseph’s College Depute Headteacher Astra Belille-Sharp believes Foundation Apprenticeships offer an ideal “progression pathway” for young people who have an inclination of what career they’re interested in.
She said: “Foundation Apprenticeships provide young people with an opportunity to get practical experience within the workplace for careers they may wish to consider.
“It’s a worthwhile experience, Astrid is gaining qualifications at a high level as well as accessing the world of work and working with specialists in her field.”
Brown Brothers Training Co-ordinator Sarah Britton added: “Astrid has made a great start and has been learning the fundamentals of our business by spending time in different parts of the factory.”
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