Artwork and Design apprentice Review

I’m a 2nd year art and design apprentice at GSK. My apprenticeship involves me being an enthusiastic team member who is willing to learn and develop new and existing skills. On a day to day basis I work with a very driven workforce creating packaging for healthcare products using a variety of software such as CAD, adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. My first section of training involved learning how to use the software CAD to create technical drawings and specifications - I found this very interesting and was surprised how much detail is put into creating the 'Net' (outline) of the box/carton.

My first year at GSK has been a huge learning curve for me. I have had to develop basic skills such as communication, teamwork and motivation. I am currently studying towards a triple distinction star in Art and Design and a NVQ. Alongside this I have attended other courses such as a 3 day intense CAD course, Level 2 and 3 City and Guilds CAD course and in the future I will complete an Adobe certified 2 day intensive course. As my apprenticeship goes on I will gain many other qualifications such as a NVQ in Print development.

I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship as its well supported by an established company. I feel like am a valued member of the team whose efforts benefit the business. Also the list of qualifications and experience I gain is phenomenal! Not only that but everyday I’m studying a subject I love (Art and design) and I’m surrounded by supportive influential people; that to me is the most important part.

I feel very valued at GSK - not only do I get the befits that permanent employers get such as pension and share rewards scheme I receive frequent updates and feedback from my managers, line manager and mentor. This feedback really makes me feel the company is supporting through my journey as an apprentice.

My 4 year programme has been very well thought out and structurted.it gives me a clear understanding of every role that runs the office I work in. I have to become competent in 4 mail roles; CAD, PCA, Artwork Operator and Proof Reader. The amount of time I am allowed training in specific roles is well thought out as some roles require a longer amount of training than others. I am also given the opportunity to suggest any college courses that will benefit my work.

I receive a lot of support from my training provider who offer me a more creative route of art and design rather than the industrial side at work. As I have already completed my A-Levels, a B-Tech is a slight drop from the work load I was used but my NVQ balances that out and challenges me more.

My employer is similar to my training provide. As an apprentice we are automatically given a line manager and a mentor so we have two people to go to if we are facing any problems. This is reassurance that if one person isn't treating you fairly you always have someone else to go to.

My salary package is one of the best for my age and discipline. My pay rise is dependent on how hard I work in the year and whether or not I meet my targets required in my personal development plan. Your hard work is recognised in your pay.

As apprentices we are given many extra opportunities on top of our day to day role. In our first year we visit our head quarters in London and are given a talk from the chief executive officer who informs us on our journey as an apprentice. Every year we attend a team building event whether that is an outwards bound course, business event or a visit to GSK house. This helps us create connections across the company and learn about the different apprenticeships throughout. Also these kinds of events develop out skills making us all round better apprentices.

Yes

It’s a very secure well developed programme and you feel safe with the company. The opportunities and qualifications you gain are excellent and last year 100% of apprentices moved on to full time employment after their apprenticeships.

The application process is difficult but if you put 100% effort and commitment into it you will get good results! I recommend applying for a little bit of work experience. This shows your enthusiastic and willing to put in the effort.