Engineering Apprentice Review

I am an engineering apprentice at a manufacturing site. My role involves completing rotations in different areas on site and gaining experience in multiple disciplines. My current role is in Automation, this involves developing software, making changes to processes and the way machines work and improving systems.

I have learnt loads of vocational skills from basic electrical knowledge to programming. I have also learnt hands on skills in the workshop and have gained personal skills such as working in a team and communicating effectively.

I enjoy my programme as it is so diverse, you get to try so many different things that you can fully understand your strengths in the workplace and pave your career from there. You also get to attend training, off site events such as Big Bang and attend award presentations, team building weeks etc etc

I do feel valued as the more experience I have, the more responsibility I have so I can actually make a difference and be an active part of my team.

The programme does have a structure, but depending on what prior qualifications you have you could enter the programme at different stages. While it is generally 4 years, the qualification you end up with and the rotations you go on are flexible depending on your strengths/weaknesses/goals

The college provides a majority of the training, I receive a good amount of support from them. Typically the attitude at college is that you are in charge of how much work you do and ultimately how well you do.

The apprentice management team are very supportive and are always available for help when you need it, they always make sure we are getting the most out of our apprenticeship and provide oopportunities.

The base rate salary is good and covers my monthly costs with some easily, however this salary can be significantly boosted depending on what shift you work- there are many opportunities to go on shift. The package is very generous, you have a good pension, free healthcare, access to discounted shares and much more

Each year there is an apprenticeship event for all GSK apprentices in that year from around the country - this is usually a week of team building/outdoor activities. There are also site events throughout the year. There are many social events organised by apprentices - for apprentices.

Yes

There are so many opportunities to try new things and find out what you like and are good at, plus it is a very rewarding company to work for.

When applying, make sure you focus on yourself and what you are like as a person, but be aware of the company's goals and values.