QC Analytical Apprentice Review

As a Quality Control Analyst, it is my responsibility to ensure that certain batches of a drug are safe for purpose. I have to follow procedures correctly and ensure that all analysis carried out is done with the highest possible quality. I perform tests such as dissolution and water content.

Working in a team where I am much younger than everybody, I have developed a much more professional attitude. I also have learned many laboratory skills which range from accurate pipetting to operating complex machinery to generate analytical data. My communication skills - both written and spoken - have vastly improved since starting my apprenticeship.

I enjoy the work-based side of my apprenticeship as it is very hands on. No two days are the same and being able to study a foundation degree with 100 percent funding is a huge bonus. The academic work can be challenging but it's not irrelevant to industry, unlike some theoretical degrees.

I am usually the middle man and have to coordinate visits, as my workplace do not hear anything about my course such as exams and stays at uni unless they are told by me. The deadlines for the academic year are given early and we usually get a loose structure of how the year for uni work is going to be planned.

My employer is very supportive of my apprenticeship and everything I need to get through the course is done. I have many people within my team who are willing to help when I need it. I always get the allocated time that I need for study and my mentor is always happy proof reading my report.

I do not know who my training provider is, as I was never made aware of this when I started the apprenticeship. My team, however, who do provide my training are happy to get me trained on a new method when there is time spare to ensure that I am competent enough for the university's expectations.

I believe that most of the course is irrelevant to my role. It's a very 'experimental' course and my job is the polar opposite, as the procedures are very specific and must be followed to ensure quality. However, when speaking to the university, they are happy to help me prove competence in a different way as best as they can.

At AstraZeneca, there are many activities anyone can get involved in. ClubAZ offer a lot of activities and there is a gym which can be used when a ClubAZ member. Alternatively, AZinspire hold events where colleagues can get together and meet new starters or catch up with people across sites.

Yes

AstraZeneca is a wonderful environment to work in. Teams are very supportive and positive work is never ignored. They are understanding of health conditions - including mental health! Everyone is made to feel extremely safe at AZ due to the high focus on Health and Safety. Most people are incredibly friendly and always happy to help.

The interview process is not as daunting as it seems! The managers and interviewers want interviewees to feel at ease to ensure that they get an accurate opinion of the people they are interviewing. The application process is not very difficult and usually the opportunity for submitting applications is open for about 4-6 weeks. I heard back from AZ very quickly, on the Monday after my interview on the Friday prior.