Laboratory Technician Review

I am a first year laboratory apprentice, doing a level 3 btec in applied medical science. My day to day tasks include routine analysis of manufactured products and raw materials that come on site, also making up standard solutions and solutions for maintenance of equipment.

From this apprenticeship I will gain a level 3 qualification in applied medical science with the view to progress onto a foundation degree. I have developed my practical laboratory skills significantly and gained more confidence. I have also gained a level one health and safety qualification and this helps me to stay and work safe in the laboratory.

I really enjoy this programme. I am working with an excellent team of highly skilled scientists enabling me to further my scientific knowledge. Gsk's company values align with my own personal values so I feel this programme was an excellent choice for me to make. Before starting this programme I was a little unsure as to what to expect, but now I'm 8 months into the programme all expectations I had have been exceeded.

At GSK you always get recognised for excellent work. Your manager appreciates all work you do and gives thanks at all opportunities. The local mail often reports on apprentice and site activities so your work is recognised by the community.

The first day on site consisted of having a full site induction and getting up to date with general site operating procedures. This was key to my smooth intro into the company. I am well supported in both my studies and my training/analysis and can ask for help at any time. Having one and a half days a week at college allows me to keep up to date with my course and ensure I can always complete assignments. The apprentice manager ensures we get full site experience, doing rotations across site and getting involved with apprentice challenges and advertisement.

As I go to college one and a half days a week this allows me to have weekly contact with my tutors. The tutors are always available by email too so any problems you have can be swiftly fixed. Any problem you have they try their best to find a solution or find someone that can help you with this problem.

Support is always available when required and everyone is always willing to help with any problems you may have. Being an apprentice is advantageous as not only do you have the support of your team and manager but you have the support of other apprentices across GSK. The HR team is often just an email away ready to help with your problems.

My salary meets my costs very well. I can comfortably live and enjoy myself on my current salary. The offer of pensions and shares here at Gsk means you are often set up for life once you start work here.

There are lots of company events to get involved with. Recently my site had a ball to celebrate 30 years of manufacture. Other activities include fun days and team building exercises. As an apprentice you with also have lots of networking opportunities with other sites. Doing local orange days (volunteering days) allows you to give back to the community and put your skills to good work. Living in this quiet area 5 miles from site there isn't many activities other than sports. With the lake district only a few miles away you always find something to do. This area also has good public transport so you can be in a city in less than 2 hours if you wish.

Yes

This is an excellent company with amazing opportunities for progression and work. Gsk enables you to be the best you can be and help people do more, feel better and live longer!

Ensure you show off your skills to their full potential in your application and prepare yourself well for the assessment centre. The transition into Gsk will be a smooth and exciting time.