Laboratory Science Apprentice Review

I work as a toxicologist apprentice with the study directors. My role at the moment involves shadowing the SD's, archiving studies, drafting reports, attending weekly protocol review meetings and visiting the unit. After I have completed my apprenticeship, I will be able to run the studies on my own.

I have learnt how to work Outlook, which is where we receive emails and set up meetings. I have become more confident in speaking to people outside my age group, as well as improving my communication skills. Also, I have learnt how to use certain systems put in place by the company.

I enjoy the lay out of the programme (4 days work, 1 day study) and the department I work in. I think the programme is very structured and there are lots of people I can go to for help. The University also come in regularly to make sure everything is going okay.

The programme is structured well, I get 1 study day a week. Also, my manager is very helpful if I don't think something is organised very well. There are lots of people who are able to help. For example, my manager, the early talent team or the Kent University staff.

My manager supports my a lot, however I don't think this is true for all apprentices. I am lucky that my manager allows for extra study time if I have upcoming exams. Also, they help with any university work I am stuck on, or work related activities. I have weekly 1:1's with my manager, which are very useful.

The university are very helpful and can provide anything we need. They come in regularly for reviews, as well as informal reviews. Also, the academics reply to emails quickly and usually mark assignments quickly. We also attend a summer school at university in July, so they can assess our lab skills.

At the moment, my course hasn't really tied in with my job role. However, it has given me a better understanding of the basic biology. This has allowed me to follow conversations better and understand more. I hope in the future there are module more related to my specific job role.

Yes, there is a sports and social club on site and a gym. My team also go for team meals for special occasions and Christmas meals. GSK also provide a Christmas dinner, which encourages teams to eat together. I have also attended networking event at the site and external ones.

Yes

The apprentices are treated like proper employees and not looked at any differently. There are lots of people to help with university work and lots of opportunities for practical's. There is also a large cohort of apprentices (70 a year), which allows the apprentices to make friends all over the country.

I think you should research the company and its values. This is because GSK apply their values to everything, so it is important that you demonstrate them. Also, be yourself, as you will then come across more confident. Finally, you should answer everything truthfully and if you don't know the answer, you a ask them to repeat the question.