Laboratory Apprentice Review

When I come into work I check emails to see what work needs doing for the day/ week. I have regular meetings on both a 1:1 level and larger scale to keep up to date with others work and to get feedback on what I do. I am in the lab on a daily basis, testing samples and developing methods.

I had no lab skills when I joined so everything I have learnt there is a new skill. The university work has benefited me by teaching me the background of the practical work I am completing. I have developed key skills such as scientific and public speaking, teamwork, and IT skills

I really enjoy the programme! The structure and layout works really well to keep me focused on both uni and normal day to day work. I also really enjoy the social aspect as there are quite a few apprentices so we meet up. The culture of the company is really friendly and everyone is really approachable.

We have one day of study per week and then work through normal work the other 4 days. this works well to ensure all work gets done for both uni and work. I have support systems in place through both 1:1s, team meetings and mentoring meetings. The uni work is really well organised into weeks.

There is a vast support system at GSK. I feel comfortable to talk to my manager, anyone in my team, my mentor or the apprentice HR team depending on the issue. Everyone is always happy to help which is welcoming so I feel confident to talk to anyone at work.

For each university module, we have a lecturer who writes and runs that module. If we have a problem or question we can easily get in contact with them via multiple routes. A university point of contact comes to the workplace 4 times a year to check in to make sure everything work/study wise is going well. I really enjoy the course.

Our university course gives us the necessary theory behind the practical work we do in the lab, meaning my day to day role is benefited. I have learnt much more about biology and more specifically the pharmaceutical industry since starting the course which has given me not just knowledge but an appreciation of the work we are doing.

We have regular social activities, whether it be an evening out or just a meal and a movie, it helps to get the apprentices to know each other. I and a group of colleagues completed tough mudder last year which we trained for toether at work. There are many sports teams available.

Yes

I would recommend GSK to a friend as it is a well rounded, global company which I feel extremely welcome in. The companies values are good values to live by. The whole atmosphere at GSK is friendly, helpful and hardworking so my time here already has been very rewarding and happy.

Advice I would give would be to research the company, find out why you want to apply and just go for it! Be prepared to work hard but with the work being really interesting it wont even feel like work. A key skill that you should practice before applying is presenting as this will benefit you at work massively.