Fresh Futures Apprenticeship - food, fresh produce and agriculture Industry
MDS Ltd · Arundel
RetailEmploymentOn-siteSustainableEmployee wellbeingCommunityProgression
During the programme, you will complete three 8-month placements with different companies, gaining hands-on experience in real roles that matter. For this intake, placements will be based within the West Sussex area, meaning you can build your experience without needing torelocate.
Across your placements, you will build practical skills, confidence and industry insight. You may work in areas such as packhouse, operations, supply chain and logistics, quality, technical support and more, giving you a strong foundation for a future career in the sector.
Why choose MDS?
- Earn while you learn with a paid apprenticeship wage of £22,000 per annum
- Work with leading food and agriculture businesses in your region, with placements based across West Sussex
- Study for a recognised supply chain qualification as part of your apprenticeship
- Gain valuable, transferable experience across multiple roles
- Build a strong network and boost your employability in a vital industry
Who we are looking for
- School or college leavers aged 18 or over
- Have completed (or be on track to complete) 3 A levels or equivalent qualifications
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to learn and work in practical roles
- A strong interest in the food supply chain and a desire to build a career from day one
- No prior experience in food and agriculture is required - just energy, commitment and a willingness to get stuck in
- Must have, or be working towards, a full UK driving licence, as the programme involves rotational placements across rural locations
Additional Skills
- Programme length: Two years
- Placements: Three 8-month placements with different businesses
- Apprenticeship: 18-month supply chain apprenticeship included within the programme
Skills required
- Motivation & Drive
- Communication Skills
- Teamwork
- Prioritisation & Time Management
- Adaptability
- Resilience
- Self-Awareness & Willingness to Learn
- Professionalism
Qualifications required
- School or college leavers aged 18 or over
- Have completed (or be on track to complete) 3 A levels or equivalent qualifications
- Must have, or be working towards, a full UK driving licence, as the programme involves rotational placements across rural locations
Training you'll get
You'll learn while working in a full-time role with some of the UK's leading food, fresh produce, agriculture and horticulture businesses, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Throughout the programme, you'll build your professional network by learning from experienced industry professionals who will share their knowledge and expertise. You'll work towards a nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification through a blend of face-to-face and online training, supported by workplace tasks and assignments. In addition, you'll receive personalised coaching and mentoring, tailored to your individual development goals and shaped by you and your mentors.
Future prospects
After completing the programme, you'll be well placed to apply for full-time roles with one of our member companies or elsewhere within the industry, or continue your development with MDS.
The essentials
Hours, commitment and the dates that matter.
Hours
40 hours per week
Duration
2 years (Fixed Term)
Roles available
1
Posted
26 Jul 2026
Starts
Flexible
Apply by
30 Sep 2026
Training provider
MDS
Delivers the training for this role and manages your application.
Where you'd be based
BN18 0AS© OpenStreetMap contributors
