Quality Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: May 2026
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
-
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
Day to day experience in analytical chemistry and pharma product testing, vast array of analytical methods for both final products and pre-batch material analysis. Operational nature of the role in such a large company means there are many opportunities for learning industry leading problem solving techniques and management.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Primary benefits of the apprenticeship are the real life applications of continuous improvement, lean and problem solving. There are a vast array of projects and areas to explore in the running of a quality facility that extend far beyond the base analytical chemistry that the degree and BAU covers, where I have been able to explore digitisation interests and project management.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Generally well managed. Significantly better than many apprenticeships nationally but minor areas could be improved.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I have had excellent support from my direct manager and the apprenticeship team are generally available quickly after reaching out. Many apprentice led groups supported by the company that help establishing your own support network outside of your direct team.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
University has generally been straightforward and communications minimal. I have had a good experience with a careers service offered early on in my scheme to explore alternative pathways. Otherwise, no major highlights but nothing negative to state.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Analytical chemistry in a quality environment doesn't truly require much understanding of the theoretical chemistry, as can be said for much of analytical chemistry in general. The degree does relate massively when you explore the applications yourself and partake in problem solving / continuous improvement, but it would be hard to state it does apply for the true day to day. Nonetheless, it is the best suited degree for the job and goes hand in hand with the 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.)
5/5
I do not generally partake but from observation, AstraZeneca is an excellent company for 'extra-curriculars'.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
AstraZeneca is an incredibly large global company. The benefits of being in any role within the business at a young age is massively beneficial. I would have no regrets in choosing this pathway even if I was to completely switch career paths following the scheme, as the knowledge gained on it's operations in general is incredibly beneficial.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Interviews and management tend to respond well to key phrases, ideologies and core company values. Research some of the companies overarching goals, such as 2030 sustainability targets available online, and develop a foundational understanding of the role you are applying for through research, outside of the typical 'subject knowledge, (i.e soft skills).
