Laboratory Science Apprentice Review

I currently work as an analytical laboratory apprentice, working in a biopharmaceutical research and development group. On a day to day basis this includes carrying out lab work, running my own experiments, writing these up, presenting my work and attending meetings. I have regular contact with all levels of my department and out above. I interact externally with schools and colleges as a STEM ambassador, an apprenticeship ambassador and an ambassador the company.

Since joining, I have vastly improved my laboratory skills as well as my analytical skills. I am in the process of completing my Applied Science Technology degree. I have also taken on various external courses such as public speaking and data and informatics sessions. I have improved upon my presenting skills over my team as well as my communication skills with different groups and levels of people.

I really enjoy my work, I have a great support network within and outside of my department and the groups has a great culture. I have regular meetings with both my line manager and a mentor to support me, whilst acting as a buddy for various new starters in the company to ensure that they are getting on ok. There is a strong focus on personal development in the company that enables individuals to push themselves and achieve the best possible. The scheme has exceeded my expectations for the amount of support I receive.

There is a lot of recognition by line managers and other team members within my department, and from the very beginning of the scheme there are many opportunities to get involved in as much as possible. Being able to act as an ambassador for various groups enables recognition both internally and externally, whilst being able to present data and take accountability for my own projects and tasks leads to a great amount of internal recognition.

The programme is well structured, with a good amount of training and support. I am allowed to be flexible each week with my university work and I am never limited as to being able to complete my studying. There is a lot of support both within my department, from the HR team supporting the scheme and from the contacts at the university.

There is good contact with the university and a lot of support. For each module on the course there will be a module leader and their contact details will be made available to enable support whilst completing the work. There are also a central team at the university who are very supportive, and always happy to help out.

My manager is very supportive, guiding me with university work and helping me with work as well as developing myself. The HR team have been very supportive from the start of the scheme, from settling in to deciding on landing roles for finishing the schemes. Everyone within my department is very happy to help and always has time to listen and support with any queries I may have.

My salary is very fair for the scheme I am on and covers both living and commuting costs with enough excess for me to still enjoy social events. Being based in Stevenage for work means that costs are relatively low.

There are a lot of events outside of work for example social events in the department and the apprentice group, team building events, development events and volunteering days. I have also been able to take on things such as The Brathay Challenge whilst on the scheme which is a great opportunity for development. There is also a gym on site and exercise classes each week as well as different sports teams.

Yes

I have really enjoyed my time on the scheme and have developed a huge amount. I have learnt a lot and feel that the scheme has set me up very well for a future either with the company or just within the industry.

During the application process and the assessment centre it is very important to be yourself and to focus on your personality and skillsets. The on boarding process can be scary as it is a big step but it is important to make the most of the people around you who have been through the same thing and who can support you. Make the most of every opportunity, and gain as much experience as possible.