Laboratory Science (Biology) Apprentice Review

I have responsibility for a whole area within my microbiology department, which is the testing of raw materials, here I wash into a cabinet to clean station test and subculture from the main testing day. I will usually have one main testing session per week and one subculture session a day. In addition, I am responsible for the coordination of the entire department equipment calibration, and help out in other areas such as culture control when needed.

Yes, I have been given the opportunity to develop my presentation skills during our monthly departmental meeting presenting on health and well being after completing a relevant course. I have developed laboratory specific skills to be able to complete my testing using specific techniques depending on the test, as well as during at university the more universal skills such as gram staining.

I love my programme, I enjoy the learning side with the university getting a wide range of knowledge not just my role specific and meeting people in a similar situation to me, I have made great friends. I love the job aspect of the programme having the responsibility of an employee instantly and getting hands on experience, as well as being part of an apprentice community is amazing. The best choice I have made is doing my apprenticeship.

Very well structured, I get my designated study day so that I am able to attend live webinars with my university and complete my work with separation to my job role so I can focus better on both individually. I have biweekly check ins with my manager to go over progress, any concerns and university progress. The training is very specific and efficient to maximize competency when learning on the job.

As previously stated I get alot of support from my employer through biweekly check ins with my manager, monthly check ins with my apprentice lead and community with the option for frequency increase/ decrease at my decision. Helping both work wise and my role on site as well as wholly as an apprentice.

Alot of support, in frequent check ins, comfort with workload university wise is discussed giving the opportunity to raise any concerns for current or potential in the future, designated study days with the option to work from home or on site in addition to extra study leave if needed for exams.

I feel like both aspects of the programme help the other, the qualification provides me with the background theoretical knowledge to the practical work I do and adds context as to why I test and why the method matters. The job allows for constant practice of the theory learnt so when on campus competency is clear.

I am part of the apprentice community which has monthly socials to maintain the community and social aspect of a degree, as well as frequent careers events on and off site to network with potential future apprentices as well as apprentices/ colleagues at other sites for resilience events such as outward bounds in the Lake District.

Yes

GSK Barnard Castle has such a family feel, everyone will smile, say hello or have a chat, it is a genuinely nice place to work with lovely people providing opportunities to develop a career where everyone around you wants to help you and see you do well.

Be yourself, do your research and be passionate about the job you are applying for. GSK want people to enjoy their time at work and get the job done, we have a responsibility to people off site, what we do has an impact.