Oncology Apprentice Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.4/10

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

I work in the analytical chemistry team supporting mass spectrometry and NMR analysis for early research and development. Day to day I will make samples up in the lab, analyse data, work with chemists and write reports along with extra investigative/software work.

8/10

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

Every skill I now have has been gained since beginning my apprenticeship. I am able to complete analysis and use equipment that I didn't know existed before. I was also able to build my organisational and presentation skills.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my work. The people I work with are knowledgeable, kind and supportive and I am able to complete meaningful and interesting work every day, working with a variety of people across many projects.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

My programme is reasonably well structured, working 4 days a week and having 1 set day for studying by remote learning through my university. I completed rotations in different areas of analytical chemistry for the first three years before choosing which area I wanted t specialise in.

7/10

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

I receive a large amount of support from my employer. The people I work with are always happy to take the time to assist me with any questions that I may have. My manager is always supportive in ensuring I have my regular day to study.

10/10

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

The support from my training provider (university) is average. All learning is remote and online, reading information and writing support. Module leaders are available for questions if necessary.

6/10

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

My qualification is useful in providing a broader background to my chemistry knowledge. My role is specific and niche so while my university course touches on this area it does not/has not yet gone into sufficient detail to increase my knowledge of my specific job role.

6/10

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.)

There are a huge number of social, networking and training initiative to get involved with at AZ. There is a specific organisation for the younger cohort of workers to ensure that people early in there career are able to grow in there roles and meet people.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

AstraZeneca is an amazing place to work! Co-workers are kind and supportive, the work is interesting, benefits good, there are opportunities for career progression and you are able to contribute to meaningful projects to make a difference to patients lives. I would rather work at AZ than anywhere else!

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

If you want to apply to AZ think about why you want to work here and whether your values align with the companies. AZ is a diverse place to work but workers should embody the company values.