Laboratory Apprentice Review

I'm a Laboratory Apprentice working in Molecular Profiling, and my work includes assay development, cell culture, and technology development, along with study towards my degree and working along side field leading scientists.

Whilst I work academically towards an FdSc in Applied Bioscience Technology, I vocationally learn in the lab every day from lab techniques to how to carry out my own tests and research. I've also learnt to manage time in getting to meetings, reading and digesting medical journals, and other key skills.

Coming into work every day is always great, there's always something to look forward to and if ever anything is too hard, my supervisor helps me out and we can find a solution. Everyone in the office really welcomed me on board, I felt like a part of the team within weeks.

Within the group and in the office, I feel very valued and people treat me like a valuable member with something to bring to the table. However externally there isn't a great deal of recognition other than the initial induction course, but an apprentice union group is in the process of being created.

Whilst induction and training are good, the academic portion of the apprenticeship was slow to start and has clumsy administration. We're two months behind where we should be due to administration issues and lack of access to key material, but things are changing in the right direction, and I'm confident that the next apprentices will fare a lot better.

Regarding academic tutoring, support has been mixed. Originally the university was eager to on-board us and get started, and it all seemed relaxed and friendly, but soon we couldn't access course materials or the email system to submit assignments, and I spent a large portion of time trying to resolve these issues. Currently we're studying using distance learning, but its difficult to know if we're on track or not and we feel a bit isolated. Hopefully this will improve.

My manager and the team are all excellent in supporting me both in work and in study, and are seeking to make sure my studies are effective and I have all I need.

Considering I live at home and pay rent, the salary is absolutely fine. However even if it wasn't enough, apprentices get a base 6% pay rise every 6 months, so there's always an opportunity to earn more.

There have been training events in London, group recreation events with IPs and fellow employees, as well as the many facilities available to use onsite such as the gym. GSK employees also get an 'orange day' to use for a volunteer activity of their choice.

Yes

The opportunity is excellent, and the work experience is so valuable. Being able to do this much lab work straight out of school is incredible, and sets me up for an excellent future career.

Apply early, align yourself with GSK values, and try and be natural and show interest in the pharmaceutical field!