Laboratory scientist apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Each day can be varied, there is a variety of testing methods I am trained to carry out and a variety of teams I am trained in. A day in the lab consists of various product testing: bioburden, sterility, filtration, endotoxin or water activity or visiting manufacturing plants to monitor the environmental monitoring process
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes I have developed lots of new laboratory skills that coincides with my university learning also
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Several skills and techniques learnt from the course have aided in my role. But not all courses are relevant to my role specifically
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
Employee resource groups, social activities, sports teams
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It’s a great company that really support and encourage their staff. The apprenticeship has given me great insight to a laboratory environment and I have never felt less capable of performing any tasks just because I am an apprentice. Everyone has supported my training and allowed great flexibility for my development
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
One tip I’d give is to really take the time to understand AstraZeneca’s values and behaviours. When applying, tailor your CV to show how your skills and experience align with those priorities. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of cultural fit—demonstrating that you’re a team player who thrives in a collaborative and fast-paced environment can go a long way. Finally, be genuinely curious about the science and committed to continuous learning—those traits really stand out.
