Quality laboratory analyst Review

Quality laboratory analyst- Test Active pharmaceutical ingredients for any impurities that could affect quality at the end of the chain. Carry out analysis each day over a broad range of techniques such as UV and IR. Attend college every Monday for applied science at HNC level and complete SVQ level 7 every Friday.

Nearly completed HNC at college over two years along with SVQ units at level 7. I have attended many opportunities with the company to communicate and build bonds with other GSK apprentices across the world. Developed my communicating and team working skills by taking part In problem solving and developed my ability to carry out different analytical techniques.

At first I wasn't too sure what the job would involve but I am enjoying the programme a lot. I have been given the opportunity to get trained in a vast majority of the techniques on site as well as getting time to improve my qualifications are college. I have good relationships with the whole team.

Every month I get one to one meetings with my line manager which allows me to voice my opinions on how I would like to develop. My management team ensure I get as many opportunities as I can and I get a lot of involvement in team tasks or visits to the site.

At our GSK site there was no apprentice structure in place. I was heavily involved with setting up a Skype conference call with management of apprentices at other sites in the UK. This allowed my site to get an understanding on apprentice structures and allowed us to create our own. This gave me the opportunity to improve my communication skills.

My training has been provided to ensure that I go at a suitable pace for myself to allow me to make sure I am confident with the techniques I am carrying out. I get all of the support that I need and management is always around to help me even once I have been signed off with my training.

At our GSK site, my management ensure that they have an open door policy. This allows me to feel confident enough to be able to voice any problems that I have or may face. All of my management team are easily approachable and will ensure I get all the support that I need.

Travel costs to and from college are provided for me by the company. I like near my work therefore I do not spend much money on travel to and from. The salary that I am provided with allows me to pay off all of my expenses and give me some money to enjoy social occasions.

As an apprentice I am heavily involved with all of the apprentice events such as work experience, careers fairs and site visits. I also get the opportunity to travel with other apprentices to complete external training with team work and communication. GSK also provides discount for us at our local leisure centre and popular restaurant/bar.

Yes

GSK is an excellent company to work for and they ensure that you get all the support and opportunities that are provided.

Apply even when you don't feel you are ready for an apprenticeship. Even if you get rejected, attending and assessment day or even filling out an application process is good practice and will give you beneficial experience for any company application process.