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Fresh Futures Programme - West Sussex

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Fresh Futures Programme – West Sussex Job Ref: freshfutureswestsussex
Kick-start your career in the food, fresh produce and agriculture industry with the MDS Fresh Futures Programme. Applications are now open for the Autumn 2026 intake.
About the Programme
If you are leaving school or college and want a practical alternative to university, this two-year paid programme offers the chance to:
- Learn on the job while earning
- Study for a recognised supply chain qualification
- Gain an 18-month apprenticeship with hands-on experience
The programme includes three 8-month placements with different food and farming businesses within West Sussex. This means no relocation is required, allowing you to build experience locally.
Across your placements, you will develop practical skills, confidence, and industry insight in areas such as:
- Packhouse operations
- Supply chain and logistics
- Quality assurance
- Technical support
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
This will provide a strong foundation for a future career in the sector.
Why Choose the MDS Fresh Futures Programme?
- Earn while you learn – Paid apprenticeship wage
- Regional placements – Gain experience with leading West Sussex-based food and agriculture businesses
- Recognised qualification – Study toward a supply chain apprenticeship
- Valuable experience – Work in multiple roles, building transferable skills
- Network & Employability – Boost career prospects in a key industry
We’re Looking for:
- School or college leavers aged 18+
- Have completed (or are on track for) 3 A levels or equivalent qualifications
- Enthusiastic, motivated, and hands-on – Ready to work in practical roles
- A strong interest in the food supply chain
- No prior experience needed—commitment and willingness to learn matter most
- Must have (or be working toward) a full UK driving licence, as placements are based in rural locations


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Additional Details
- Programme Length: Two years
- Apprenticeship: 18-month supply chain apprenticeship integrated into the programme
- Placements: Three 8-month rotations with different businesses
Apply Now
Fill out the application form to join the Autumn 2026 intake:
Apply Now – Fresh Futures Programme - West Sussex
(Instructions for applying --- Application entries required: Name, Surname, Email, Phone, CV Upload)
MDS Ltd. Management Development Services | 14 Papyrus Business Parc, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 5BH
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