Manufacturing Apprentice Review

My role as a manufacturing apprentice is to operate machinery on a line, with typical roles including loading components, testing devices and collecting data from finished products. I've spent time packing products, taking samples and IPC checks.

I have been signed off on multiple subjects such as devices on a groniger labelling machine to transferring goods through an airlock into a grade C sterile area. I've also learnt social skills such as better communication and teamwork.

I am thoroughly enjoying my apprenticeship and still have over a year left, I enjoy being part of a team and working in a rewarding job where I know I'm helping people. I find the role very interesting with different processes all leading to the finished products.

My programme is quite organised as each year I am doing something different in terms of job roles but also college. I study on site first year and spend my second year doing a HNC in the lake district.

I receive plenty of support from my employer, GSK offer my many kinds of rewards and help me feel a valued member of the team, managers, peers and mentors all help me to strive for excellence in my role.

I receive lots of support from my training provider especially this year at GEN2, we can contact our teachers via email with any questions or queries. our apprentice lead also helps us with any support we require.

Although my qualification will help boost my career and look impressive on my CV, the subjects I'm studying aren't very relatable to my actual job.

Alongside our jobs, GSK does have a football team/club. Apprentices can also get involved with careers fairs at schools and become part of the early talent recruitment team.

Yes

It is a very large and successful company, yet you always feel like a valued member of the team and are treated fairly. the company looks after their employees and the job is very rewarding with annual bonuses and shares.

Don't be discouraged, I was only successful on my second year of applying for a role on the apprenticeship scheme. try to learn some background information on the company beforehand as this will impress assessors.