Rating

9.3/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • My job title as an apprentice lab technician allows me to explore areas of a company that I otherwise wouldn't have been able to do. Daily tasks include working in the lab completing testing not only by myself but also helping others which gives me experience of interacting with a range of people. I also complete work and writing up on the computer, enhancing my existing IT skills.

    10/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I have taken part in a lot of training such as environmental health and safety awareness, display screen equipment, the importance of GMP/GLP, COSHH (control of substances hazardous to health) and personal protective equipment training along with many more. Going to different training courses has helped me improve my confidence and taught me new things to keep myself, and others, safe.

    10/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I enjoy the program as it is a combination of learning both in a classroom for college and in the workplace. The team at work is encouraging and helpful with any problems that I may face. It exceeded my expectations as I wasn't sure what to expect before I started however, 5 months down the line I feel like a part of the team. I enjoy the job itself.

    10/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by 3M UK?
  • I am continuously asked if I am doing okay on a project and receive appreciation from others. Moreover, I have monthly meetings with my college assessor and my supervisor; during these meetings I am told how well I have settled in and possibility of staying on after the apprenticeship.

    10/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • The programme is well structured as I have regular meetings with my college assessor to provide me feedback on how my work is going and also to set training goals for myself that I need to have achieved by the next meeting. This helps both myself and my mentor to be able to assess where I am in regards to training. Moreover, tasks are delegated evenly and fairly depending on what training each individual has received; sometimes this means working alone, other times it means working with a team.

    10/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • My training provider has given me their work mobile numbers and emails to contact them if there is ever a problem at work or in general. They're always happy to help if I have a problem and help to support me.

    8/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • My workplace carries out monthly meetings to give updates on the progress of certain projects. However, it is also a time to raise any issues if necessary and work through them. As of yet, I have had no issues to raise. My employer's general attitude towards helping is positive.

    10/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • I recently moved to Loughborough to pursue my career as a lab technician therefore I am currently paying rent on a flat rather than travelling 40 miles to and from work each day, however, this was my decision and I did bring it up during my initial interview. I travel to Nottingham for college on a Wednesday, however, my programme provides these expenses back to me.

    8/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • The company holds a Christmas event every year along with others throughout. I have yet to experience any events outside of work. The team to however get together outside of work on some occasions for meals or for leisure activities.

    8/10

  • 9. Would you recommend 3M UK to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • Working at 3M has given me a real insight to the working community. I have been welcomed in and made good friends within, as well as settling into the job and receiving constant support.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to 3M UK?
  • Although the application process can be long, I would suggest sticking with it. When given an interview, do not panic. The questions will be about your previous progress and your own interests and hobbies so that they can get a better understanding of who you are as a person and how dedicated you would be to your job role. When I was applying, I would have like to have been told about the kinds of questions that are asked such as were they about me, my past working life or about my future- this would have enabled me to feel more comfortable and relaxed during the interview.


Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Science

East Midlands

February 2018


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