Engineering Apprentice Review

I oversee the digital systems used across site by investigating, implementing and improving systems on site. My day starts off with a meeting, the team discuss progress made and goals we hope to achieve. Everyone is given a brief idea of what else is going on and contribute another project.

I have been sent on very many, mechanical, electrical//electronic and programming courses to develop my skill. This, as well as the hands on work on the job, allows us to grow within the company and become an asset to our teams. You see the growth in responsibility over time.

I enjoy the work environment and the roles I participate in. The opportunity allowed me to have the first-hand experience of the workplace and how a large company works. The Outward Bounds trip allowed me to meet other apprentices and get involved in fun activities for a fully funded week away in the lake district.

The programme is constantly adapting in order to bring out the apprentice best potential, this sometimes means things get changed unexpectedly, but it usually brings out the best outcome. I have been able to complete my HNC in a year due to allowing change to happen and taking on new challenges

I constantly have check-ins with my manager to update on progress or things I would like to change. It is very easy to talk to my manger or mentor about any concerns I may have and how I can rectify it. GSK encourages up to speak up if there's a problem.

We had meetings every 8 weeks, to discuss progress, I didn't gain much from those meetings. I have recently changed training providers which I haven't been with for long. My new training provider allowed me to complete my HNC in one year, this gave me time to dedicate time to being at work and expanding my knowledge even more.

The training was a small scale model of what we actually do at work. It provides an idea of what you could come across and helps with fault finding as it is a safe environment to make mistakes. I could bring what I learnt from my training provider to work, put it into context and build my knowledge at work.

I've been invited to many events such as award ceremonies, open days, open evenings. A lot of these events, I probably would never have been invited to if not for the apprenticeship. There are plenty of social events planned such as Christmas parties, an annual summer boat party etc..

Yes

It was a great way to step into the world of work, I've been taken care of very well but also given the chance to work independently and trusted to make good decisions. I have learnt the importance of networking and building relationships within the work place, once you find someone you can trust to complete the work you need completing or people trust you to do the work they need doing, your job becomes a lot easier and tasks are completed a lot quicker. Also, the work environment becomes more enjoyable. Overall a very good working environment.

Be willing to take on new challenges as the workplace is very different to school/college. Always ask questions and do your research - figure out if the apprenticeship you apply for is for you. The application was a long process, but it proved to be worth it in the end. I expressed my dedication and willingness to learn and my values fell in line with GSK’s values. The opportunity allowed me to have the first-hand experience of the workplace and how a large company works.