Senior Science and Policy Officer Review
at RSPCA
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Science
Horsham, West Sussex
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4/5
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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
I help develop and implement work on implementing the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) and robust ethical review of animal use in research and testing. My role particularly focuses on refinement, with the key objectives of identifying, defining and promoting initiatives that will reduce suffering and improve welfare throughout animals' lives.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I have enjoyed this apprenticeship very much. The programme has been detailed, clear, and comprehensive. I have enjoyed the mix of learning new skills and learning new ways to think about or implement my existing skills.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed my skills in areas such as communication, delegation, leadership and motivation. I have also learned new skills in areas like conflict management, negotiation and influencing, and coaching and mentoring.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme has been very well structured, with self-directed learning to complete each week, regular 1:1 check-ins with a dedicated personal development expert, and group workshops to support the learning.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I have received lots of support from my employer, including plenty of flexibility to allow me to complete my self-directed learning, opportunities to put my new skills into practice, and regular check-ins with our apprenticeships advisor.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider has provided plenty of detailed information to support my self-directed learning, documents to guide me through the process, and access to a dedicated personal development expert to provide support, feedback and guidance.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel much more confident in my ability to manage and lead others. The programme has included a huge range of skills, which have helped me to become a more well-rounded employee, and has helped me to think about skills that will support my further career development, such as strategic thinking and decision-making.
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
My employer runs various extra-curricular activities, such as professional development and support networks (e.g. the Women's Network, the Umbrella Network for LGBTQIA staff), and a wide variety of training opportunities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend RSPCA to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The RSPCA has a supportive, innovative and positive culture, driven by committed, like-minded people that share a common goal: to try and make sure that all animals have a good life.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to RSPCA?
Applying to work at the RSPCA requires a genuine passion for animals, and animal welfare. There can be huge variation from day to day, so be prepared to be flexible and adaptable, and ready to always learn new things.
