Design & Artwork Review

During my apprenticeship I will cover all the current roles within the RSC: CAD Operator, Artwork Operator, PCA, Proof Reader and Creative Designer. I work in the area of the company responsible for delivering the packaging graphics, artwork and text for all of our products. Currently, as a Multimedia Designer in the PASS Creative team in Verona I have been given the opportunity to branch out slightly from the main focus of the scheme and I now create photo-realistic 3D models of our products to be used as visual prototypes or for marketing purposes.

Due to the diversity of the apprenticeship, it’s difficult to single out the most significant. I feel I have made significant progress in my competency in the various software we use in the office. I have gained or am currently gaining qualifications in software such as the Adobe Creative Suite, 3DS Max and AutoCAD and feel confident using them all when 3 years ago I had never touched them before. The experience and qualifications in this software is invaluable in the design industry. Since moving to Italy with the company I have picked up a basic knowledge of the language which comes in useful when communicating with fellow employees or outside of work in my day to day routine.

I enjoy the variety of work in this program. My tasks change day to day and this keeps things fresh and new, I work with different people everyday both in the office and with clients all over the world. My team is a pleasure to work in and I enjoy coming to work to tackle whatever it is I may be doing that day.

GSK always emphasize that apprentices are the future of the company. They make the effort to keep us in employment after our time is finished. I have been sent to represent the company on occasions and they have invested a lot of money into me. GSK have put a lot of money as well as time and effort into sending me to work in Italy. These responsibilities they place on me make me feel valued.

We have a program which we follow. Obviously in a working environment things don't always go to plan so there are often deviations. However, on the whole, we stick to the plan whenever possible and we know what we are doing and when. There are always experienced member of staff on hand to learn from as well as an abundance of work to do.

Because I cover a number of roles during my apprenticeship I have a number of different of different tutors. So far all my tutors have been very approachable and able at delivering the training. I've enjoyed the roles and feel as though I have learned the techniques and processes to the best of my ability. My managers always try to ensure I have, who they feel, are the most qualified individuals carrying out my training.

Any problems I may have, whether they are work related or not, I have no problems getting help from my colleagues or boss. I feel very comfortable in this respect. My employer takes great interest in my studies and ensures I receive genuine support from GSK whenever it is warranted.

I moved out when I got my apprenticeship and I still manage to cover my living costs whilst living well and running a car. As long as you're careful with your money there is no reason why you can't cover your costs. I receive what I feel is not only a competitive apprenticeship salary but also a competitive salary for any employment.

At GSK you get access to their sports center for a very good price. I have been to employer mornings, done presentations at schools and even had the opportunity to meet Princess Anne at the BQF awards in London. GSK often send me on courses all over the country and I have been given the opportunity to work in Italy for a large percentage of my apprenticeship.

Yes

They value my training and progression more than they value my work output. Therefore they are constantly looking to improve my skills rather than piling work on me and trying to get their moneys worth from me. The staff are all friendly and make me feel welcome and I feel I have not only kept my levels of learning rising since I finished full time education, I feel they have accelerated.

Work on your application form to make it as good as you can. This is all the information about you that they will have to look at before making a decision. Be confident and talk through your strengths without coming across as over confident. Be polite on your assessment day and remember it's better to over dress than under dress. Find out about the whole scheme before hand. a 4 year scheme at this stage of your life is a long time and will likely shape your career for the rest of your life. So make sure you are interested.