Apprenticeships - Food and Drink Process Operator Apprenticeship Standard 130

Process Operators work in the manufacturing sector of the food and drink industry. They may be employed in a company that specialises one type of product, e.g. ready meals, soft drinks or confectionery, or in a company that makes a wide range of different products. Process Operators typically work on production lines within food manufacturing plants. The industry uses excellent manufacturing processes and highly automated equipment and technology to ensure it remains competitive, and produces food and drink products to strict food safety and quality standards.

What you will study

Learners must achieve KSB (Knowledge, Skills Behaviours) to enter Gateway for EPA (End Point Assessment). The KSB set out what the learners need to know and need to do in order to perform effectively in their role at work.

You will produce/develop evidence building an electronic portfolio covering a range of methods (observations, work products, witness testimonies, projects, assignments and case studies). Your assessor will agree and arrange to observe you on site, working with you and your manager determining your level of knowledge, skills and behaviours.

On completion of this programme, Process Operators will be able to carry out production operations using a range of equipment and will be able to carry out basic fault finding on the equipment they work with. They will be able to handle food products safely and hygienically. They will be able to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to maintain quality and to ensure products meet customer requirements.

Apprentices without level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level.

Further study

On achievement of this qualification progression to a higher level of learning and achievement can be considered.

The qualifications that should be considered include:

• OAL Level 3 Diploma in Food and Drink Operations
• Team Leading or Supervisory Management qualifications
• Food Science and Technology qualifications
• Food Safety and HACCP qualifications
• Health and Safety qualifications
• Quality Assurance or Auditing qualifications
• Specialist sector specific qualifications e.g. artisan or advanced craft operations