Rating

9.2/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • I am involved in the calibration, testing and fixing of electrical instruments on site. I am assigned to a qualified technician and learn about the instruments as I go. I am also involved in various projects with the aim of improving site standards. I calibrate gas detectors, temperature probes, flow meters etc.

    10/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • Yes, I have definitely improved my public speaking skills. I have had to give presentations to large groups and have learned an awful lot from that. I have also learned how to use tools much more efficiently. My IT skills have also improved as I input a lot of data and also design presentations.

    10/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • Very much! I enjoy the combination of hands on learning and theory. I'm always learning something new. There are always more problems to solve. The qualified craftspeople are also brilliant, they are very helpful and really make the apprenticeship. I also enjoy being able to go around site and be exposed to different areas.

    10/10

  • 4. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • It is organised as we have a dedicated manager who manages the apprenticeship program however our program is run in coordination with the Irish Government and their training whilst good has a very long waiting list because of this it is likely that my apprenticeship will take longer to complete.

    7/10

  • 5. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • I receive a tremendous amount of support from GSK. They offer development programs which teach skills such as resilience, confidence and team building. We also have a buddy and mentor program which helps with the onboarding process. My third level education is also supported as they refund the cost of my courses and offer study days before exams.

    10/10

  • 6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
  • Lots! They offer study days and also offer help from qualified craftspeople. Our manager checks in on us and makes sure that we are ok. We are also encouraged to go to night courses and gain extra qualifications. GSK refund the cost of the courses upon successful completion of them.

    10/10

  • 7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
  • I understand the theory behind the instruments which allows me to problem solve slightly easier. The only downside is that there is a lot of theory which isn't necessarily applicable to my job, that being said it probably is applicable to apprentices in a similar role but in different companies.

    7/10

  • 8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
  • Yes, we have a tag rugby team, zumba dance classes, an operation transformation club, 5 a side soccer team and a running club. They are all brilliant and personally I am in the tag rugby team and I also participate in the zumba dance classes which are run once a week.

    10/10

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


  • 9b. Why?
  • I think that they are a great employer, they offer loads of opportunities and you can really tailor your apprenticeship to suit your own needs. They also provide health insurance and offer many other benefits. The culture on site is a very friendly and helpful one and it's a great place to work.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to GSK?
  • Be yourself and be honest. Consider why you want to apply and tell them that. Make sure you are prepared for an intensive application process and do your best. You can not get the position if you don't apply! Also consider the different types of apprenticeships that are offered and don't be afraid to reach out to GSKL and ask for more information about the different roles.


Details

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Engineering

Republic of Ireland

February 2019


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