Why a Mars apprenticeship could be your child's perfect next step
Finding the right career for your child can be overwhelming, but Mars’s apprenticeship programme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, education, and a salary from day one. Find out more about how your child could build a successful future with Mars.
21st Nov 2024
Welcome to Mars
For generations, you and your family — including the four-legged members — have loved Mars brands, products and services. M&M’S®, Pedigree®, Ben’s Original®, Royal Canin®, Skittles®, Whiskas® – Mars is home to some of the best-known brands in the world. At Mars 140,000+ Associates across 80 countries get the opportunity to work in confectionery, family meals, petcare, veterinarian services and much more.Why choose an Apprenticeship at Mars?
A Mars Apprenticeship could be the perfect choice to set your child up for career success. With hands-on experience, structured learning and great mentorship, Mars Apprenticeships provide young professionals with a strong foundation for the future. Here, we’ve outlined some of the main reasons why an apprenticeship at Mars could be the ideal path for your child.Earn while they learn
One of the biggest advantages of an apprenticeship is the ability to earn a salary while gaining valuable qualifications. Your child won't just be learning – they'll be building real-world experience and financial independence from day one.Best-in-class development
Mars's apprenticeship programme offers:
- Hands-on experience in a real workplace
- Further education and formal qualifications
- Excellent mentorship from experienced Associates
- At least 20% dedicated off-the-job training time
Multiple career paths
Mars offers apprenticeships across various fields including:
- Operations
- Engineering
- Sales
- Health & Safety
- Digital
Mars are currently recruiting for Operations and Engineering Apprenticeships across the UK.
How can you support your child's journey?
Create a safe space for discussion
Your child needs to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and aspirations. Create an environment where they can openly discuss their career hopes and worries. Remember, there's no rush to make decisions – this is about finding the right path for their future.
Stay informed and engaged
It’s important for you to have a deep understanding of Mars's diverse business sectors to begin with. Take time to research their operations across all the business segments. Stay current with industry developments and trends that might affect your child's career path. Consider connecting with other parents whose children have undertaken similar journeys – their insights can be invaluable.
You should also take time to thoroughly understand the apprenticeship structure, what they will be learning and the length of the apprenticeship. Understanding the qualifications and certifications offered will help you better guide your child through their choices.
CV & interview preparation
Work with your child to create a compelling application that showcases their potential. Help them identify experiences that demonstrate their capabilities, whether from school, hobbies, or volunteer work. Guide them in crafting their CV and help them ensure that their application aligns with Mars’ values. Review their application materials thoroughly, ensuring they present themselves in the best possible light.
When it comes to interview prep, dedicate time to helping your child prepare for interviews. Research Mars' values and culture together, discussing how these align with their own aspirations and goals. Conduct practice interviews to build their confidence and help them articulate their thoughts clearly.
You can also encourage your child to participate in activities that develop relevant skills. This might include joining school clubs, taking on leadership roles, or volunteering in the community. Help them recognise how these experiences build transferable skills valuable to their future role at Mars.
You can also take some time to talk about your child’s career goals. Explore different career paths within Mars and help them understand the opportunities for progression. Think about whether additional education or certifications could support their goals, and discuss how the apprenticeship can fit into their overall career plans.
Understanding benefits & future planning
Take time to review the apprenticeship's financial aspects together. Help your child understand the salary and benefits package. This will empower them to create a realistic budget and manage their finances responsibly when they start work.
Work with your child to set achievable financial goals. Discuss the importance of saving and investing for their future, and help them understand how to manage their income effectively.
Remember, your role is to guide, not direct. The best support you can offer is helping your child make informed decisions while respecting their choices.
Your child's journey to becoming a Mars Associate is exciting and full of potential. By giving them the right balance of practical help and emotional support, you can you can guide them to choose the right apprenticeship for them.The Mars difference
At Mars, apprentices aren't just employees – they're Associates. The company's unique culture empowers every Associate to learn, expand, dream, and develop. It's a place where innovation is encouraged, responsibilities are shared, and efficiency is valued. You can find out more about The Five Principles on Mars Careers site.
Ready to take the next step?
Visit the Apprenticeships at Mars home page to explore current opportunities, or contact the Apprenticeship team directly at apprenticesupport@effem.com.
Remember, this isn't just about finding a job – it's about launching a career with a company that values growth, innovation, and making our world better every day. Give your child the opportunity to be part of something bigger while building their future, one step at a time.