R&D Apprentice Review

My role is within the mechanistic toxicology team. This involves both novel and routine toxicological studies. The aim is to provide a non-animal alternative to toxicity testing for current risk assessment support and for new products, and also to provide a database for future work.

I have learnt a plethora of new skills. There is a huge amount to learn and a lot of on the job training is given. Skills include personal ones such as time management, public speaking, presenting etc and more job focussed skills that relate to laboratory work and using diagnostic machines such as flow cytometers. However training is very much person oriented, in that it has to come from you.

It it hard work. Apprenticeships in my opinion are much harder than a regular degree or job. There is an awful lot to learn at work, and a lot to learn at university. Time management is a key skill, and occasionally personal life will suffer to meet deadlines as necessary. However, help is always given if asked for.

I feel like a member of the team. Whilst this is a good thing that i am well integrated and am treated everyone else, sometimes it would be nice to be treated like the apprentice I am. Often it is the case where a lot of work will be given and that is an issue with the amount of uni work there is, so I think more leeway would need to be given for apprentices, given the added workload we have on top of regular work.

Overall the structure is good. Training is acceptable and suits the job we are currently doing. However, as the first apprentices on a new scheme (started in 2012) i feel there is a lack of direction as to where we will be when we complete the apprenticeship.

Not a lot of support is given by my training provider. As a part-time student its is often hard to meet deadlines given the fact University is only one day a week. However University treats me like a full time student and does not allow any leeway considering my circumstances. This is very difficult and I feel my overall degree mark will suffer through no fault of my own.

Support is good at a work and life level. We have line managers, "buddies" and mentors as necessary. Meetings can be scheduled whenever and there is rarely a feeling of being on your own. There are healthcare services as needed.

I feel for the amount of work we do we could be paid more. I personally am doing the same work as most others on my team however due to age/experience am paid less. If however you factor in the cost of the degree that the employer is paying for it is more agreeable. Again, there is not much information regarding the end point of the apprenticeship with regards to development and potential for progress.

Yes. Outside of work Unilever is excellent. At our site there is a gym, sports clubs, a bar, and a discounted shop. The company meets every need for socialising and offers a very relaxed in-work atmosphere.

Yes

It is a very good life-choice generally. Being able to earn a degree for free whilst gaining experience in one of the largest companies in the world is a huge benefit.

Think very hard about what you want to do. It is not for everyone and is by no means an easy option as opposed to university. It is hard work. Stress levels are much higher in a competitive workplace. University is difficult only one day a week and requires excellent time management.