R&D Laboratory Science (Biology) Apprentice Review

In the morning I satr by lookigna t my emails and answeting any messages I may have missed the day before. It depends on the day but if I am doing Lab work, I will be in the lab in and out. When the lab work is completed I come back to my desk to analyse the data. I may have an informal catch up with some colleagues or friends. I might have formal meetings or two.

Yes, I have definitely gained a deeper understanding of the biological side of what I do. I have gotten even better at adapting as I was lost at meetings but now I can actually follow along or even ask questions. I am able to carry our analysis of data and interpret results. I have learned to be more organised, develop a healthy work ethic and solve problems. My favourite skill is that I have developed to be more efficient which has helped me in my personal life as well.

I really enjoy my programme. I have always been a person who enjoys biology and would rather work with it that study it. An apprenticeship for me has nailed that balance as I work full time and study part time. I initially struggled to work as it was my first 9-5 but I eventually found my flow and every one around me has been very supportive.

It is mostly structured and organised. when I started the where goals and objectives that I had to achieve however the way I achieved them was up to me and my manager. Thankfully I always felt like I knew what I needed to be doing and by when, and If I didn't I knew who to ask for help.

I personally felt very supported when I joined. We had a resistance event with the purpose of introducing us to all the support available to us apprentices. It also focused on how to work on skills needed in our role like resilience or presentation. We have so many facilities like private rooms, prayer rooms, and well-being rooms. You can get financial advice, mentors, and employee discounts.

I attend residentials provided by my training provider every year for a week. However when I first joined we had multiple residentials. They do a really good job of providing support as you pared with a skills coach who will be there to support and assist you.

I would say that quite a few people do different roles on my course ( however it is all still related ). So the qualification goes through a wide range of modules that might not be directly relevant to my role, but it is still beneficial knowledge that puts me up to par with people who went the traditional route of university. That being said in the final years you will get to choose your modules that will be more suited to you and you can also work an a project which is directly related to your role.

Yes I am fortunate to be part of a very sociable team and company. We have social activities like days where we play games, sports days where we go out and perform outdoors activities, and professional networking events. people do book clubs, different challenges eg. walkathon, picture competition. we also have crotchet classes and a gym on site and discounted rate for personal trainers. The list goes on

Yes

Because I love for my friend what I love for myself, and I love my company.

Know the company as best as you can. know your role as best as you can. Seek help and advise even when you feel like you dont need it. Only apply for what you are genially interested in. Give examples that prove why you are the best person for the role.