Rating

8.9/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • I am a junior scientist, I carry out corporate calibrations on a spectrophotometer and other Inferred/Visible/UV measurements. I aimed trained onsite by scientists for four days but also have one day of academic work. I have been given a lot of responsibility in this role and thoroughly enjoy this opportunity to complete advanced applied science.

    10/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I am currently completing a BTEC in applied science, a LATA and other qualifications. I have attending lots of specific training courses internally and shall complete lots of industry leading courses throughout my time working at NPL (Strata electrical/gas/pressure courses).

    10/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I enjoy working in my current job role to the extent I would pursue a further career in science either at NPL or another institute. My team is very intelligent and friendly. The company has a great ethical code of completing work to a high standard but also concerning itself on safety and the well-being of all staff no matter what role.

    10/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by National Physical Laboratory?
  • I have been given a lot of praise for completing good work, I have received a bonus on one occasion in my first month of working. I am going to start working on outreach to promote NPL to school aged children to promote science. I feel this will improve my status as an employee

    9/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • NPL has a great structure so I am very informed and complete any work/tasks within acceptable deadlines with any aid I may require.

    9/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • My tutor is brought in for one day to teach a group of eight. I would prefer more time with a tutor to complete even more qualifications however, the applied knowledge I am gaining from working four days is unparalleled.

    9/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • I have a lot of representatives and superiors that aid me and advise me on correct methods to complete work. I have built a strong rapport and understanding between my main supervisor and feel comfortable approaching most staff with any problems I would have. I have received some leeway due to grievances and have appreciated the way I have been treated for this.

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • I currently receive £150 a week, I would prefer a lot more than this obviously but this does meet my basic requirements although I know for others who have higher costs it barely does meet their needs.

    6/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • I receive lots of invitations to things as a member of staff, some unrelated to science and some are useful courses or opportunities to improve my skills.

    8/10

  • 9. Would you recommend National Physical Laboratory to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • It is in the top three institutes in the world for what it does. It is a very professional environment that allows personal freedom with great opportunities of work.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to National Physical Laboratory?
  • Display your communications skills well, give an honest appraisal of yourself when asked and show your mature understanding to how the company works. State anything you are uncomfortable with and describe all aspects of science you have been interested in, as it is likely someone at NPL works with it.


Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Science

Greater London

October 2014


View More Reviews
Recruiting? See how we can help you