Manufacturing Apprentice Review

As a manufacturing apprentice at AstraZeneca, I get the opportunity to move across site in order to develop skills and knowledge about different parts of AstraZeneca. At the minute, I am currently working as a Process operator on a drug called Zomig. A day in process is never the same. Some basics include taking water samples, cleaning, monitoring, compounding, filling and inspection.

Every day at AstraZeneca is a learning day whether it be about the product/process, the environment or the people. Skills I have learned on the job about the process is how to run a line unaided, how to take finger dabs, the appropriate cleaning standards that are required for a clean area. Working in a clean area also enabled me to learn how to aseptically dress, which is a skill I can use not just at AstraZeneca. Working with people enables you to develop skills for life, such as learning to work with people of a different age group, or people with different opinions, working in a team etc.

At the beginning of my apprenticeship I was very nervous which hindered me to enjoy my apprenticeship to its full extent, working with new people in a new area was scary for me, however, over time I have began to feel more confident and I am able to enjoy this experience a lot more. This is due to getting to know everyone and the job role. However, not every day is enjoyable if you don't like what you're doing.

I would say it is fairly organised, however, there is always room for improvement. When I first joined, the first two weeks were excellent as all the apprentices were able to get to know each other and everything that was set up was tailored to our needs. There could be more structure on starting in a new team as my first team did not know I was coming.

Everyone at AstraZeneca is so supportive. Being a young adult a lot of people want to see me achieve great things with their help. My manager is very supportive in anything I chose to do or if I have any queries. My plant manager is also supportive in the sense of has made me feel apart of the team. The most support comes from the people I work with on a day to day basis. My team are so lovely and are willing to help with anything.

Going to college one a week is good as you get to separate your week up, college are there to help and have always been very supportive of anything I struggle with. Likewise with the people who I go to college with such as the students. Overall, there are supportive.

Knowing that you are going to get a qualification out of the end of your apprenticeship gives you an incentive to work harder and a potential job at the end also enables you to aim higher. Having a college course related to what you are doing in work also helps to put theory into practice.

AstraZeneca offer Club Az which is where anyone and everyone at AstraZeneca can get involved in activities such as the gym, archery, tennis, football. It also offers a chance to get involved in the Club Az lottery, any charity events, even the chance to get discount on meals out such as Gustos.

Yes

AstraZeneca is a great place to be. For anyone just starting there career or looking for something different. I find that there is a job at AstraZeneca for everyone. The experience is good, it is a good company to work for, the money is very good and the people you work with are lovely.

Have an updated CV, ensure that all the important things are on there that make you stand out. If you are offered an interview prepare for it. Go through all of AstraZeneca's key values and research the company well, to show you have an interest in the company. Tell them why you want to work for AstraZeneca and link it to the values.