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We are delighted to be celebrating National Apprenticeship Weeek 2022. 

The aim of the week is to encourage companies and people to consider how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and employers to build a workforce with future ready skills.

We recognise Apprentices year in, year out at our Annual Industry Awards Ceremony.

From chemical processing to civil engineering, we have celebrated numerous apprentices for over a decade. 

We caught up with 2020 NEPIC Apprenticeship Award winner, Molly Conroy- Oakes. Molly is currently a Laboratory Analyst at GSK, in Barnard Castle. 

Read on to find out more about Molly’s apprenticeship journey…

Tell us about your Apprenticeship Journey.

“I began my apprenticeship in 2017 at GlaxoSmithKline Barnard Castle, working in the Analytical Chemistry labs.

In my day to day role, I learned a variety of analytical techniques to test raw materials and finished pack pharmaceuticals including nasal sprays and antibiotics.

Alongside this I worked on a number of additional projects including the validation of new laboratory equipment and method optimisation work.

I have now completed my apprenticeship and work in the Analytical Project team who ensure that the labs have the necessary methods and equipment to test new pharmaceutical products that are transferred from R&D.”

How has your apprenticeship journey helped your career?

My apprenticeship has given me so many opportunities to take part in different projects and build up a network of contacts.

From it, I gained confidence through completing these projects and working with a wider team to see tasks through.

Overall, it has increased my understanding of site process which has really benefitted me in my move to a more project-based role.

Why would you recommend completing an apprenticeship as opposed to going to University?

 “An apprenticeship gives you invaluable on the job training whilst also providing you with the academic qualification to support this.

I have been able to achieve a Foundation Degree whilst gaining 3 years of practical work experience in the laboratory.

I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is keen to get into the workplace and likes learning practically.”

#NAW2022 #BuildTheFuture

Start your Apprenticeship journey today.