Higher Scientific Apprentice Review

My role consists of carrying out day to day lab activities (PH checks on neut pits, Pipette checks, Balance checks, etc.) and aiding with the work flow. Once a week I go to college and study towards my HND in applied chemistry. The rest of my time is spent working on a project that I can present for my end point assessment.

It was vital to have a moderate understanding of the scientific principles before starting my apprenticeship but I am developing my skills everyday and learning more as I interacted with different people. I have grown a lot more confident in my own ability and scientific knowledge as well as my social skills

I highly value the experience I am gaining with Cavendish. I enjoy learning in a more practical environment and believe that gaining experience as apposed to just theoretical knowledge is much more valuable. Another benefit is the support from my colleagues, always available to support and give me advise, especially ex apprentices.

My program is structured so that we have a placement in the majority of the labs by the time we are fully qualified (depending on staffing levels) the set plan is to spend 6 months in 4 areas then settle to do a development project that will be presented at the end point assessment.

Once every two weeks I have a meeting with my line manager to talk over how everything is going. this ranges from help with college work, my development project or just generally just about how I'm finding the work place. Apart from my manager all other colleagues are very helpful and support me where needed.

Every quarter my training provider, line manager and myself sit down for a review to establish my progress and what I can do to progress further. I also have reviews with my lecturers to see how I am doing in practical's, exams and assignments to ensure I am on track with targets.

My HND in applied Chemistry helps me to better understand the scientific principles of the methods and procedures I complete at work. the practical's at college have also made me more comfortable lone working and developing my own methods. Our professional skills module opened my eyes to quality systems and legislations that we have to follow which isn't usually part of my day to day job.

We currently don't have any extra-curricular activities however we have all been asked to think of team building activities that we would enjoy and take part in. we have a large age gap in our workforce so it may be a struggle to find something we were all happy and physically able to do.

Yes

I would recommended working for cavendish as they entrusted me my job responsibilities. they give me space for growth. they are a company of credibility in the industry. The level of qualification and apprenticeship will push anyone completing it to greater heights in the company as they will have a well rounded understanding of everything that goes on in the labs.

Know what we do, locally and company wide. Express your specific scientific interest so you can work with something you will enjoy. Ask the interviewer how they got into the company. Have a portfolio of projects you have worked on previously in college/ A levels. Demonstrate your passion for the science and nuclear industry.