Manufacturing Apprentice Review

I am a manufacturing apprentice. Due to completing Level 2 and Level 3 NVQ in processing industries, I have been able to have expertise in training in a technician/operator role in the Tablet Manufacturing department for Level 2, and a technical support role for Level 3. In Tablet Manufacturing, I was trained in a stream which included processes like Loading, Blending, Mixing, Coring (Tablet Compression) and Coating. For Level 3, I took on a project of Penicillin containment for the site and problem solving problematic areas.

I've learnt a variety of skills. Problem Solving, how to run processes, teamwork, handovers, communication, iniative, discipline, confidence amongst other things.

It is a complex but enjoyable experience because I have seen a great deal of the business and how everything links together. Also, to be trusted to run a process after my training is fantastic. I've also taken part in STEM ambassador events, Industrial Cadets, an Outward Bound programme and travelling to other sites to see the culture and different ways of working. I've been lucky.

I do feel valued by GSK. They really let you use your iniative and manage your own time to complete tasks, goals, training etc.. I get a ton of support and encouragement and it helps me deliver my goals on time.

To be honest, as it was the first year the site hosted the manufacturing apprenticeship programme, it seemed disorganised at the start, but some of the problems were not the fault of the leads running the programme. As time has gone one it has been clearer what is needed to achieve and now the programme is well organised with the support of staff included.

I get a lot of support from my tutor and I meet him once a week on a Monday at college. He gives me thorough information to complete exams and assignments and is always there to give me advice and support me whenever I need it.

I have a good system where I have a manager who makes sure I work towards my targets for the year, my apprenticeship lead who keeps the programme running smoothly and organises events, and a mentor who advises me on how to achieve goals and where I want to be in the future after my apprenticeship.

At the start because I lived on my own and took a paycut to go onto the apprenticeship scheme it was very difficult at first. But as there have been a number of pay rises due to my performance and different living arrangements its now manageable and feel a lot more happier..

To be honest, recently there hasn't been. In the past I've been allowed to travel to other sites, go on courses provided by the apprenticeship team and take part in projects outside of work. Coming up, I may be travelling to a overseas site in France and doing events as a STEM Ambassador.

Yes

Because in truth there are a lot of different roles and it really is a job you can have for life. It offers diversity and you are rewarded with hard work you put in.

Be yourself! Be honest, transparent, open to change and ready for challenges because there are high and lows everywhere you work. You meet a lot of new people and have the opportunity to work towards qualifications.