Laboratory Science apprentice Review

My job title is Science Laboratory apprentice, and this involves working in the laboratory and carrying out experiments that will assist in the team I am currently working with. My daily tasks will vary, as I plan experiments depending on results I receive from a previous experiment. These may involve using T cells from human blood, and then testing the different cytokines that these cells release, depending on how they are treated. I work very closely with my manager, and she is very helpful in making sure I know exactly what to do, and keeping me safe in the laboratory. I have a responsibility to work safely, and obtain results that can be presented at out monthly team meetings, currently I am working on an experiment that may run up to a week long, and using machines in the lab that will measure how much my cells have proliferated. This has involved much training, and I am slowly able to work alone in the lab.

Currently, I am working towards a foundation degree in Applied Bioscience with the university of Kent. They have provided all my materials online, as well as extra reading along with my mandatory learning. I take 1 day study each week in order to complete my degree within 3 years. The work based learning has proved useful in certain areas, however my knowledge still needs to be increased in order for me to understand exactly how to connect different project with my degree learning.

Work has been difficult all together, this is mainly due to the lack of comfort now working a longer distance from home, and getting used to full time employment after school education. However, it has helped me develop as a person, and test my limitations and boundaries. GSK as a company has given me so much support in this area, and continue to support me throughout my degree. Even though my job is high pressure and takes up more time, they respect that the degree is just as important, and would allow me extra time when necessary (such as during exam season).

GSK as a company are extremely accommodating, and that makes me want to work even harder, and give them the best use of my time. My manager in particular has been very caring and generous with her time, and I respect that she understands it was a big job coming straight from school, working alongside doctors with mastres, and pHDs. However, they do not view me as any different, and value my eager interest to explore my career path more whilst studying for a degree part time.

The programme is structured well, however it requires self-determination as there are no tutors/teachers to check that you are up to date with your degree. This shows useful, if you prefer to work at a slower or faster pace than you would usually in a school/university environment. I am able to plan what exams and when I want to sit them, and this compliments how my secular work is going, especially during times when GSK are perhaps more busy/if I have anything I need to get done.

Kent university have checked in a good amount of time, and they were understanding if I was struggling, however you need to keep in contact with the tutors, because they can become preoccupied with exams, or leave work unmarked for a considerable amount of time. As a result, it can be very unpredictable what mark you are given, and the feedback is not extremely helpful. This needs work, but the university are open to feedback.

My manager is always willing to help, or give me any extra time needed if I feel I am struggling or falling behind. I have recently been given a mentor, and am yet to meet them, however to go out of their way and provide me with this is very kind and considerate. The team recognize I may need time to catch up, so there is never any pressure to give talks at meetings yet so I can fully understand the project.

The salary is very good, especially for an 18/19 year old. It covers all my costs, however as I commute to work that usually takes around 30 mins-1 hour, it can become tight some months. However, we have been given dates for an employee bonus that everyone gets, and also an apprentice salary increase. As a result, this gives me more motivation to keep up with the hard work.

Work have many activities going on especially for industrial placement students, and apprentices. We are required to do at least 1 voluntary event a year in order for us to complete the apprenticeship, these involve giving talks at schools to encourage the apprenticeship or attend STEM events. GSK also conduct various sports teams for employees, and have a local gym that is discounted for GSK employees.

Yes

This opportunity is definitely worth it, and helps you to figure out if this field is the path you really are passionate about because you get first hand experience. You can also do an apprenticeship at any age, if you are not trained in that particular field, so it doesn't take university out of the equation.

You need to be very passionate not only about the subject in study, but the company and the idea of working and completing a degree. Your attitude should be positive, and ready to take on new challenges! Definitely apply for work experience so you can have a taster, and don't be afraid to ask questions or talk to current apprentices.