Laboratory Science Biology (Digital) Degree Apprentice Review
at GSK
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Stevenage
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.5 /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
5/5
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Skills Development
4.2/5
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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
My role is lab-based. I am expected to spend around 70% of my time in the lab and the rest of my time is allocated to studying for university and office work. I read a lot of papers to gain insight into new innovations in my area (downstream purification) and I carry out techniques such as chromatography in the lab.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy the apprenticeship and the work that I do. everyone in my department is also very friendly and welcoming. However, I do find that I don't have much to do at times but I think that this is something that I will learn to combat in time as I learn more about my capabilities and what I can/can't do as an apprentice.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learned how to carry out lab techniques that I previously didn't know about as well as how to use and maintain equipment that we use on a daily basis. I am also fortunate to find myself in an environment that fosters my curiosity and I am encourage to learn more at every opportunity, e.g., I am learning to code. I am also trying to improve my soft skills such as networking and public speaking.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I believe that the organization of my course and workplace is very well structure and they synergize together quite well. I find that my course is always applicable and relevant to my workplace which helps a lot when it comes to writing assignments, looking for ideas, and finding people to answer my questions as I learn more and become more curious.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
My employer provides a lot of support and is always prepared to help me develop further. I do find that sometimes I'm not always encourage in the way that I would want to be which can be a little demoralizing sometimes but I also need to remember that I am an apprentice and I'm still learning so I may not have as much trust or responsibility as some of the more senior members of my team. the company as a whole does a lot to take care of me in terms of wellbeing and offering opportunities for personal development and learning new skills. I don't find myself wanting much more than what I have.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
My university is very good at letting me know that they are always there to offer support if/when I need it. I take full advantage of this and I don't hesitate to message them if I need help with anything, big or small. This wasn't easy at first and can feel intimidating/embarrassing to ask for help at first, but I have now realized that this is what they are there for and they are here to support me in whatever I need.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I find that the course I am working on always relates to my workplace in someway which is very rewarding to see that I can apply my new learnings in real time. I also enjoy the fact that if I ever have something I need help with on the course or in an assignment, or even if I'm just curious, there's always someone as work or at university who is prepared to foster that curiosity and help me learn more.
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
There is a gym where sports classes and challenges are hosted on a regular basis as well as ERGs (employee resource groups) which I would describe as university societies where people come together for social events inter-departmentally. This is very good for networking and visibility and everyone is very friendly. My team and department also regularly has team building activities and social events.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend GSK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Good first working environment which a friendly culture. A lot of social events to get involved with and very easy to get integrated into the company. everyone is also very understanding of the fact that you are learning and there is no hesitation to help you if you ask for it.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to GSK?
Don't be afraid to ask questions or for help. everyone was once where you are now and they understand. Also, if someone is making it feel difficult to ask for help, find someone who doesn't and don't hesitate to stand up for yourself (although, everyone at GSK is very friendly so I doubt this would ever be needed). if you find that you aren't doing what you expected to be doing or you aren't satisfied with where you are, speak up, don't just grin and bear it. there's always other opportunities available and plenty of departments and disciplines to move between. the point of an apprenticeship isn't just for the employer to get value out of you but mainly for you to get the most value out of your time here - they go hand in hand.
Global Patient Safety and Pharmacovigilance Industrial Placement Student
at GSK
- Placement (10 Months+)
- London
-
4.8
