Clearly Drinks puts fresh fizz into team with apprentice drive

A soft drinks maker is looking to add some extra fizz to its team with the latest roll out of an apprenticeship programme.

Clearly Drinks wants staff for “multiple apprentice roles” at its Sunderland base before the end of the year.

Bosses say the recruitment drive will build on recent contract wins with Britvic and Carabao, and fresh brand listings in Asda, Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsburys.

The firm’s apprenticeship programme is run alongside Derwentside College, with learners receiving an initial two-week training plan to gain a level two NVQ manufacturing operations qualification, before having the opportunity to work towards an NVQ level three in leadership.

Speaking about the company’s talent pathway, apprentice Charlie Piercy said: “It is perfect for me, as I prefer learning when it’s more hands-on.

“I’m able to shadow senior members of staff, which helps me learn.”

Having undertaken various roles within the business, Tia Burrows is progressing her apprenticeship in the supply chain.

She said: “The whole workplace was extremely welcoming, and everyone is so close here.”

Production apprentice Thomas Walton added: “I originally went to college to study IT, and then university to study computer forensics, but I couldn’t find a job I loved in Sunderland, so decided to take a new challenge.

“I’m currently in the syrup room, which has allowed me to work on big national projects and get in front of clients.

“I’m still interested in exploring a role in IT, which I know will be possible at Clearly Drinks with the support of the team.”