Assistant Chemist Review

Item: Assistant Chemist at Manchester Metropolitan University
Rating: 3.8
Author: Anonymous

at Manchester Metropolitan University

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Engineering

Bradford

Review Submitted: April 2022

Overall Rating

3.8 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

3.5/5 - Overview of Role

3/5 - Skills Development

3.8/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

3/5

At my company, it involves small-scale laboratory processes; i.e., making 1KG versions of our products to improve their manufacture. In addition, I carry out product testing, new product implementation, method implementations, etc.
For my Apprenticeship / at MMU, my day consists of watching pre-recorded webinars, completing workshop questions and reviewing the answers, completing any coursework and attending live webinars.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

4/5

I enjoy the MMU programme to a good extent - it provides skills in a range of areas outside my field as well as specific knowledge directly relating to my workplace role.
The distanced learning is great as it allows me to be independent and work at the best times for me.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

3/5

At MMU I have developed various new skills. In Chemistry, I have improved my knowledge on organic, inorganic and physical chemistry topics and can now implement these in my workplace.
From my apprenticeship / workplace units, I have learnt how to increase my business opportunities, follow standards/legislations, file for patents, and progress in my role.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

3/5

The programme runs throughout the year so can be tiring, but each term only has 2-3 units so the workload is dispersed.
The tutors/lectures can be quite vague / distant at times due to much of the teaching being done through old lectures/powerpoints - therefore the tutors don't always know exactly what we've being going through.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

I receive an extremely high level of support from my employer. My manager constantly assures me that I can communicate any issues or concerns to them, and also regularly checks on my progress.
They allow me allocated time each week to focus on the course and are open to increase this time if required.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

3/5

A high level of support. Units designed for the EPA are embedded into the course so we continuously develop skills to pass our apprenticeship; i.e, behaviours, knowledge.
Regular meetings are held between the University and my workplace to ensure I am happy and not stressed about the amount of work or the content.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

4/5

My role is largely organic based, therefore inorganic and physical chemistry aren't regularly used; however, having the knowledge is extremely useful to be rounded in my role.
The workplace skills that I have developed have help me perform better and excel in my career to progress to more leadership and advances tasks.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

4/5

At my work, there are regular networking events for many different types of groups, i.e., Early Careers, Diversity. We also have many Microsoft Team groups so we can socialise with colleagues at different sites. The company holds webinars to keep everyone up-to-date on the business climate and any change to expect.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Manchester Metropolitan University to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Although there are some negatives (distanced learning can result in a delay when help is required, or can result in lack of motivation), the course has been very well developed and provides an array of knowledge based and behavioural based skills that help progress careers and open doors to other business opportunities.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Manchester Metropolitan University?

Ensure you focus on your time keeping skills, organisation and motivation. There won't be a teacher forcing you to complete work or revise; it is all independent and your own decision.
Chose a subject that resonates with you and that you will enjoy because not only does it help you progress easier and quicker, but it also helps others on your course stay focused.

View All Company Reviews