Chemical Engineer Degree Apprentice Review

by GSK

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Analysing process data and identifying the root cause of problems, process safety, delivering improvements, supporting comissioning and supporting complex manufacturing processes are just some of the tasks involved in my job. As a chemical engineer in the pharmaceutical sector I focus on piping systems turning raw materials into products.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Lots of new techincal knowledge on process engineering I have never known before. Developed transferable skills such as confidence, communication, behaviors in a working environment etc. Developed ALevel knowledge in uni work.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy it very much; couldn't ask for a better program. I am working for a brilliant company, with a great support network and getting a degree along with 5 years of experience in the sector and endless development opportunities.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Quite well but could be better (it's only my first year and I am the company's first apprentice in this sector so it is expected). I know what uni work I will be doing when and my work supports this learning with on the job relevant experience.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Lots of support. I have a mentor in SLT who completed the same degree and fortnightly calls with him to help with anything I need. Everyone in my team is supportive especially my line manager who troubleshoots any issues I have rapidly. All employees are happy to help me.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Lots. Have multiple lecturers who answer queries on content quickly and a designated person for any problems to be brought up (and catch up meetings). Communication is very good.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I think this will be more evident in further years when I am deeper into chem eng content, in the first year there haven't been many cross overs between work learning and university learning but I am starting to see connections going forward.

5/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Difficult with COVID and not many apprentices on my site but there will be an out of bounds with all apprentices in summer and the apprentice council organises networking events and out of hours activities.

5/10

9a. Would you recommend GSK to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Has been the best pathway for me. Great support, many benefits, endless opportunities for development, great example of a healthy working environment.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to GSK?

Be prepared for a competitive application process. Need to be a proactive, positive person and innovative in your thinking. Use a variety of experiences in your interview and make sure you align to their values and expectations.