Apprentice Biomedical Scientist Review

I work in Leicester Royal Infirmary's Biochemistry department (Pathology). I am responsible for testing patient samples to support healthcare professionals on the diagnosis and management of a disease. On a daily basis, I participate in the running and maintenance of analysers for specific biochemical biomarkers such as enzymes, trace elements, hormones etc. and produce results which are communicated to clinicians.

New skills I have learnt are to learn how to operate, maintain and troubleshoot analysers and equipment used in our lab. I know have an understanding of quality control procedures and their importance in measuring laboratory performance. My part-time degree has enabled me to explore areas of biomedical science further and learn important diagnostic methods across different disciplines. I have developed my communication skills further as I interact with different service users.

I have mostly enjoyed my programme, because every day is a learning opportunity and never the same. At times, I may find things challenging but there is always support and guidance offered to help me progress in my role.

I think our programmed has been structured reasonably well over the period of 4 years.Since it is a new programme there are some aspects that haven't been properly figured out yet but as the first cohort of students we are able to contribute in the development of this programme.

I receive a lot of support from my employer and they are easy to approach and offer guidance.

We receive a lot of support from our university and we have regular 1-1 meetings and meetings at our workplace with mentors from the uni.

This qualification gives me the theoretical knowledge towards working in a pathology laboratory. Since I only work in Biochemistry department at work, the degree covers all disciplines of pathology and enables us to work within other departments in the future.

Our hospital offers many social events and activities offered to all staff, these are advertised on a staff intranet accessible from work computers. Within our department we regularly have social events to celebrate birthdays/retirements/leaving parties/christmas etc.

Yes

Because the job is rewarding, at the end of day you are contributing to the care and treatment of a patient. There are lots of opportunities to progress in your role and many training programmes available on offer.

In the application process, familiarise yourself with your hospital trust values and how you can apply them in your workplace. For this course in particular, demonstrate how you show an interest in Biomedical science by relating with your past experiences. Make sure to attend the open days for short-listed candidates to observe the working pathology department and take the opportunity to ask lots of questions.