Rating

9/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • My everyday role as a higher laboratory scientist within materials science covers a wide range of responsibilities. Each day I carry out routine laboratory work with the target to characterise products going on to market. along side this I am instrument owner of several instruments providing support to people who use them, I am a laboratory coordinator ensuring the laboratory is running effectively and safely. I also attend a variety of meetings to enable knowledge sharing and development.

    9/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • Throughout my apprenticeship I have learned a variety of new skills and further developed previous. Throughout the higher apprenticeship you carry out a degree, this teaches you new information around your area of work. Along side this there are many other areas of learning, these can include on the job training on instruments and techniques within the laboratories, training on computer systems that may be used, safety training and a whole range of other training options. Training is not only provided to the techniques you require but those that you are interested in.

    10/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • My program provides a wide range of opportunities, I work in a small group however work with much larger teams both within the UK and other countries. I enjoy the variety of work and atmosphere within my team. Within the university work there is a strong atmosphere allowing help between apprentices and a continued supportive and friendly atmosphere.

    8/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by Pfizer?
  • Pfizer treats apprentices as if they are full time, there are no limitations in everyday activities and as long as you have the drive Pfizer is more than happy to facilitate any ambitions. I have been able to work in many different fields along side my day job. There is a strong sense of achievement with every completed project.

    10/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • The program has recently undergone change, this has enabled everything to be updated and made relevant to the change in apprenticeships. There is a big drive to improve the program, keep it up to date and ensure both apprentices and supervisors are happy and comfortable within their roles. There is a wide range of people to contact regarding any concerns or help that may be required.

    9/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • My training provider although long distance, is able to provide a wide range of support from a variety of mediums. They are able to be contacted through phone, email and more importantly video calls. This enables them to provide help and support on a wide range of topics in a visual manner expanding upon any points that may be of difficulty.

    8/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • My employer keeps constant contact with me through the duration of the apprenticeship. There are quarterly reviews with myself and my manager to ensure I am on track and enable me to express any concerns. My employer is also always contactable through email and phone along with frequently being on site to enable contact.

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • I currently do not have any large outgoing bills however, Pfizer's pay is designed around UK averages and ensures a suitable wage is maintained. When on the higher apprenticeship there is enough money to be able to move out of which a number of people have done previously. The wage varies depending on the level of apprenticeship.

    10/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • Outside of work there is a verity of activities, some specific to departments and others for apprentices. The apprentice atmosphere is one that is currently being worked and improved by both the company and apprentices, this enables a wide range of beneficial events building a stronger and more friendly atmosphere. These opportunities are not mandatory however have the ability to aid you in your apprenticeship.

    8/10

  • 9. Would you recommend Pfizer to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • Pfizer has a very friendly atmosphere as well as being hard working, there is a wide area for progression available as long as you are able to put in the time and effort. Pfizer also ensures there is access to any help that may be required along the apprenticeship and is focused on the support of all colleagues including apprentices.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Pfizer?
  • The application process is easy and assessment days are designed to be as hassle free as possible, there is a strong friendly environment to ensure the best for everyone. Within science applications there is a detailed tour of the laboratories and all other applicants will be able to discuss what an average day at work would look like, providing a transparent view of their roles.


Details

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Science

South East

May 2018


View More Reviews
Recruiting? See how we can help you