Manufacturing Apprentice Review

As a manufacturing apprentice at AstraZeneca I get to work in many different areas such as packing, assembling and processing pharmaceuticals. Currently I am working in Zomig assembly where I help to assemble Zomig nasal spray devices. I am tasked with replenishing components that are used in the machine when they're running low. I also must check devices that have been made in order to make sure they don't have any defects. The team that I am working in are also helping to train me so that I can help set up the machines and start a production order. Currently I am observing them do this which involves them doing ensuring line clearance checks have been done, sensor checks, label camera checks, reject sensors. Then when running samples will be taken at the start and checked. There will also be data checks and status checks of components, receipting your components too. When the order is finished you do consumption of components, line clearance checks and end of order paper work.

I have learnt many new skills while working for AstraZeneca such as correct manual handling techniques, GMP (good manufacturing practice), SHE (safety, health and environment), cyber security, how to correctly use pallet trucks. SHE includes things such as how to impact less on the environment like turning off switches. It also teaches you things like how to safely handle chemicals. GMP teaches you lean techniques and other ways of being more effective when working. I have also been able to develop my knowledge and core skills while going to college as I have been learning further maths and how to apply it to mechanical principles while also improving my writing and computer skills at the same time.

I love what I am doing at AstraZeneca and I can't wait to continue with my programme and keep developing my personal skills while helping to improve the company and make an impact. Working in this industry provides you with a great feeling of reward as you are making an impact in the world. it also has a great environment for me to grow and an amazing community of people who all want to help each other and be the best we can be.

I would say that my apprenticeship is structured well. We have been given a folder on what things the company expects from us and what they want us to learn. We have monthly meetings will a member of staff from the college and with our manager to discuss how we think the apprenticeship is going and if any improvements need to be made. We also have a plan on what areas we will be progressing to after each placement.

I receive good levels of support from my employer. My manager has given me a contact number and we can also reach him on emails and he is quick to respond if we need any help of advice. They have also debriefed our line managers well so they know exactly what they need to do to make my apprenticeship as effective as possible and help me learn as much as I can learn. I can also report to this line manager and my team if I need any help.

I receive plenty of support from staff members at Macclesfield college as I am working towards my qualification. They always have staff to talk to if you need any help and we can visit the college any day during the week or in some school holidays if we feel like we need extra support.

I believe the qualification that I am working towards helps me perform better in my role because it gives me a better knowledge in how the machines that are being used work and it gives a more in-depth view of how different maintenance techniques we use at AZ work and what they actually are doing.

Currently we have an apprentice group that goes out to socialise. There are also many activities that have been offered to go to different events such as a view into what quality assurance is. I am also a part of AZ's workplace networking site which acts as a way to connect with people from all over the company.

Yes

I would recommend AstraZeneca to a friend (and have) because the company provides such an amazing opportunity to grow and develop all my skills and network. They also are very caring for their staff and help to provide a working atmosphere that is inclusive and positive for everyone involved in it.

I would say that they need to try and stand out and see how they fit in the AstraZeneca's values and behaviours. They need to be positive thinking and willing to develop and put the effort in in order to get the best results for them and the company.