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Laboratory science biology (digital) degree apprentice Review

at GSK

Degree Apprenticeship

Pharmaceutical

Stevenage

Review Submitted: February 2025

Overall Rating

4.1 /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!

4.5/5 - Overview of Role
4/5 - Skills Development
3.6/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
My role involves a lot of activities in the lab where I am required to operate machines and equipment in the lab to facilitate the purification of antibodies. When I'm not in the lab, I am reading research papers or completing e-workbook pages related to work that I have done in the lab.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I am really enjoying this programme. I'm never bored and there's always something to do and nothing feels too boring or monotonous.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I believe that My confidence with basic lab technique such as aseptic technique, and pipetting has increased immensely and I know how to operate lab equipment that I had previously never encountered. I also find that my confidence in networking has grown and I am able to speak to people of all ages and background with more ease than ever before.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
I feel like there could be a lot more organization and clear communication of what is expected of me by the end of this course from the beginning rather than from Year 2 (e.g., EPA).
I also this there could be better lines of communication between the early talent team and the university to avoid schedule clashes and prevent me and the other Y1 apprentice in my dept from missing out of development opportunities.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
I receive a lot of support and reassurance from my employer. I just wish she was a little more flexible when it comes to discussing development opportunities and my study days. I would like to take more development opportunities rather than being restricted to only what my manager expects of me and I would like a little more independence to explore the opportunities available to me.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I believe I receive a lot of support for my uni studies, however, I have not taken full advantage of this support, even when I may have needed it.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I find a lot of relatability between my qualification and the lab applications.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Always, and I enjoy taking part in them - team builds, work drinks, celebrations, sports, ERGs, etc.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend GSK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think that GSK is a good company to have on my CV for experience but I also believe that the company takes good care of their employees. I haven't met a single unfriendly person here or anyone who isn't happy and willing to offer help when you may need it. I couldn't ask to work at a better place.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to GSK?
The process may seem long and competitive but don't feel intimidated or discouraged, just give it your all and make sure you diversify your answers to interview questions to show your full range of experience and life skills. Most importantly, just be yourself :)
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