Apprentice Laboratory Scientist Review
at Severn Trent
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Shrewsbury
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
3.9 /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
-
Overview of Role
3/5
-
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
In my role as an Apprentice Laboratory Scientist, I work in a microbiology lab looking for indicator bacteria in samples of water from across the network. I work closely with the Public Health and Standards and Monitoring teams to take care of one of life's essentials!
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I am enjoying my programme because it offers me a wealth of hands-on experience and a breadth of technical knowledge which will allow me to move within the company and offer my knowledge and skills to a range of teams.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
I've developed technical skills using a range of laboratory equipment including media preparators, autoclaves and flow cytometers. I've also developed my ability to communicate effectively to a range of audiences, alongside my ability to manage changing priorities and plan my work effectively to meet deadlines.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
My programme is well structured in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University - I complete university study one day a week remotely from the office and spend the rest of my time in the lab developing all of the KSBs required to demonstrate my vocational competency.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I am fully supported by Severn Trent to attend my university residentials, development opportunities with other teams and with a plan in place for my development in my current role throughout the duration of the apprenticeship.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I receive support from my training provider through the detailed knowledge and research experience of lecturers at Manchester Metropolitan University, alongside any pastoral support I might need when balancing part-time degree-level study with full-time work.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel that my qualification helps me to perform better in my role as there are a range of modules which directly target the theoretical basis of my work in a microbiology laboratory, alongside modules which encourage me to continue developing new technical skills and improve processes in my team.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
The Severn Trent New Talent Network (STNT) helps apprentices to connect, there have been opportunities to get involved in charity fundraising and volunteering opportunities in the communities served by Severn Trent. The induction and onboarding experience also helped me to find friends in the New Talent community at Severn Trent
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Severn Trent to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Severn Trent supports my development and I know that I make a positive contribution to society and public health every day at work.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Severn Trent?
Make sure that you are familiar with Severn Trent's values - your potential at work is shaped by your values and approach to work.
