Packaging Professional Apprentice Review

My role is to examine the correct packaging components with the team that best suits the drug product that goes into it. On a day to day basis, I complete many training courses that bring me up to speed with all the specific requirements I need, especially when I am in the lab. I also have completed impactful work supported by my mentor. Along with external work such as becoming an ambassador for Stem and SIP.

External activities include ambassador work for STEM and SIP. I am also working towards my BSc hons in Packaging design and technology. I have developed many skills such as presentation, communication and professional job related skills. So far within my role I have learnt how to effectively communicate through a personal effectiveness training course that was put in place for us, as well as a presentation training course.

My programme so far has been thrilling. I already feel such a sense of passion towards my job role and have learnt so much. The team I sit within are constantly aiming to develop me within the work place and as a person. The culture of the company is very selfless as we are all working towards one main aim which is to put the patient first. So far the programme has been great.

I had a weeks worth of induction at the start to get me familiar with the company and my cohort. I currently have ongoing training in many areas as my role is office and lab based. I have weekly mentoring meetings with a member of my team to support in building my knowledge of packaging. I have a block once a month to study at uni and every Friday I have a study day for uni.

My manager has supported me from the very beginning, involving me in many things to shadow and help out with but also being someone to talk to about anything. The HR team has been fantastic, organising many events to help build community between all the apprentices within the company. My mentor has given me lots of time a week to sit down and have a chat as well as build on my knowledge.

So far my training provider has offered me lots of support. I have a work based learning coach who is there to talk to about anything whether it be personal or uni based problems. I have followed up after a few of my lectures with an email regarding things I don't understand and my lecturers have gotten back to me ASAP or set up meetings to support with this.

My learning at UNI corresponds with the learning that I do on site at work which I have found to be very beneficial to putting knowledge into action. I also find that its helped me massively with motivation and passion to do well within the company as i find myself bringing new ideas to the team that I have thought of based on the theory I have learnt at uni.

I have gotten involved with the STEM and SIP ambassador training and have had the opportunity to put that into action with some online key stage 5 events. The apprentice committee and our AZinspire group have also put together many social events like online quizzes or get togethers so that the new starters can network and from this I have made many new friends. I also took part in our online careers booth showcasing our apprenticeship programmes.

Yes

Because AstraZeneca has a very selfless nature, everyone offers to help you out and help you develop as a person balanced with also giving you impactful work that breaks the stereotype of the typical apprentice work. I have met many new friends through this programme which really helped my confidence as well as being part of such an amazing team that really drives my passion and initiative to fulfil my time as an apprentice.

Be yourself and approach any questions with answers that reflect you and your ideas. Be confident as the company wants new innovative ideas to help it constantly improve. Talk about things that you are passionate about and have a drive for as it proves that you are thinking on your feet about different scenarios. Build up a portfolio of exciting opportunities you've undertaken to reflect the companies values, making you a great candidate.