Laboratory apprenticeship Review

At GKS Maidenhead the apprentices work on a rotation basis through the compliance team, microbiology laboratory, chemistry finished product laboratory and chemistry raw materials laboratory. Throughout the rotations,we learn a variety of skills from analytical chemistry to identification of bacteria. We are also given one day a week to carry out our university work.

I have learnt a variety of new skills within each department, this allows me to take on a variety of landing roles. I have been on an outward bounds trip which has helped develop my teamwork and communication skills. Within the laboratory I have learnt to identify bacteria and perform analytical chemistry testing using a variety of machines.

I enjoy working within the team as I feel I am treated as another member of staff not just as an apprentice and I am given a lot of responsibility. I also enjoy working as a team of apprentices on various projects on the site. The company promotes open and honest discussion and I feel my ideas are listened to.

I feel my work is appreciated and my ideas are valued as I have been given the chance to work on projects to improve the company using my own ideas. I have also been rewarded on regular occasions through employee recognition awards from various line managers. GSK promotes a good atmosphere were we feel all our ideas are valued.

We are inducted well into the organisation as we are treated like any other staff member and take part in site and local inductions. Also, we take part in regular reviews by the university to help us understand how we are preforming on our course and if we are on track. Furthermore, the company encourage 6 monthly PDP reviews to help you reach your university and career goals.

We take part in 3 monthly reviews where the training provider will come to our site and review how we are progressing on our course and if we are on track. Also, they are always at the end of the phone or reply very promptly when e-mailed with any concerns. They always have a positive attitude towards helping us.

GSK support their apprentices development by placing them on projects as an apprentice team to help improve their team building skills. Also, we are sent on outward bound trips every year to help improve a variety of skills. Staff who are expert in the area we are studying are always happy to help with any queries we may have about our university work.

The company covers all travel and acommodation costs if you are going on any trips away for example going on a university week. Also the company pays for the outward bound trip each year and company held events. The pay is competitive and is currently in the process of being increased.

The company holds an outward bounds trip for apprentices every year. This helps us build on skills that we may not learn whilst at work such as communication skills and team leadership. We also are allowed one orange day a year where we can take part in a volunteering activity. We also go out to local schools to help promote apprenticeships.

Yes

It is a great place to work with a friendly atmosphere. All of your university fees are paid for by the company and you get hands on practical experiences too. You are not treated as just an apprentice and get real responsibility like any other employee. You are also given the opportunity to work with other apprentices which is like a big friendship group.

Just be yourself and be open to new ideas and experiences. The process is difficult but if you get through it just proves how good you really are. The assessment day is a really good experience even if you don't get through as you learn a lot from the feedback. Just make sure you are prepared for the interview and read up on the company beforehand.