eslava, a finalist for the Adult Training Awards at our recent Business Awards, is a dedicated and highly motivated team member at Yeo Valley, known for her exceptional work ethic, strong communication skills, and drive for personal and professional growth. Starting her journey as a skilled machine operator, Preslava has not only excelled in her role on the production floor but has also set her sights on a future career in accountancy. Her commitment to self-improvement and her contribution to her team exemplify the values and community spirit of Yeo Valley.

In her role as a machine operator, Preslava consistently demonstrates precision, efficiency, and responsibility. Her day-to-day tasks include:

- Packing products into trays and ensuring accurate line labelling.

- Conducting line washouts and clearing machinery between production runs.

- Dismantling and setting up machines for upcoming shifts.

- Maintaining high standards of housekeeping and hygiene.

- Adhering strictly to Health & Safety protocols.

- Performing quality checks on products and processes.

- Organising the work area, including rotation of tasks among team members.

- Monitoring chilled product temperatures and verifying quantities and specifications.

- Operating Mechanical Handling Equipment (MHE).

Her attention to detail and commitment to quality have made her a key contributor to the smooth running of the production line.

Professional Development

Preslava is actively pursuing a transition into the field of accountancy. Through her studies at Weston College, she has significantly improved her Maths and English skills - advancing from Entry Level 3 to Level 1/2. These advancements have enabled her to thrive in her accountancy coursework and understand complex financial concepts, including:

- Interest rates, loans, and borrowing.

- Reading and interpreting financial documents.

- Applying mathematical terminology confidently.

- Expressing and interpreting time, measurement, and weight accurately.

- Recognising and appreciating cultural differences in mathematical language and processes.

Her improved skills have already had a tangible impact on her current work, allowing her to respond more effectively to production reports and updates, and enhancing the quality of her workflow.

Team Contribution & Communication

Working in a multi-lingual environment, Preslava has become a valuable communicator. She effectively conveys instructions, understands complex directives, and offers clear input during team discussions. Her approachable and open demeanour has made her a supportive figure within the workplace, helping other employees and learners develop their own English and maths skills.

Preslava is a dependable team member whose collaborative nature contributes positively to team dynamics and overall performance.

Aspirations & Inspiration

Preslava’s journey toward accountancy serves as a powerful example of ambition and perseverance. Her story inspires others at Yeo Valley to pursue their own development goals. Her commitment to learning and growth exemplifies the opportunities that arise when individuals are supported by their workplace.

Yeo Valley’s Commitment

Yeo Valley is committed to nurturing its employees, recognising that investing in their personal and professional development strengthens the entire organisation. Through offering onsite English and maths lessons, including to nightshift staff, they ensure all employees have access to vital skills training. This inclusive approach reflects Yeo Valley's belief that they are more than just a place for producing milk, yoghurt, and ice cream - they are a community.

Yeo Valley’s ethos of support and education fosters a strong sense of belonging, and employees like Preslava stand as a testament to the positive outcomes of such an environment.