Technical Specialist Review
at Charles River
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Pharmaceutical
Saffron Walden
Review Submitted: May 2026
Overall Rating
3.1 /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!
3/5
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Overview of Role
3/5
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Skills Development
3.2/5
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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:
3/5
A lab based role, with defined technical expertise, working according to established procedures, independently executing routine and non-routine tasks.
Provides specialised practical support in functional area. Contributes technical expertise to the day to day operations .
Provides specialised practical support in functional area. Contributes technical expertise to the day to day operations .
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
Through the apprenticeship we continually developing new skills, and the apprenticeship opens up further opportunities for growth. However, opportunities for the development of practical skills and their application within the workplace are currently limited.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
In my experience, kent university demonstrates limited structure and organisation, with insufficient planning and coordination with employer impacting the overall experience.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
Lots of support received from line managers. Greater structure and more consistent communication would further enhance this support, as securing protected study time can be challenging within a fast‑paced working environment.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Support from the training provider is available but you need to be proactive about reaching out, queries can be answered quite ambiguously you will be prepared to be independent and a critical thinker.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Journal clubs, and coursework provide skills and confidence to perform better in my role.
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
Lots of clubs available and is a friendly and social working environment.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Overall, the working environment is supportive, with opportunities to learn and encouragement for professional development.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Charles River?
Demonstrate your critical thinking skills and ability to work independently as these skills are essential in face-paced environment
