Apprenticeships are work-based courses which involve learning and gaining qualifications while working for an employer. An apprentice works at the employer’s premises, gaining practical experience and skills while working towards a qualification which is relevant to their job.
Laboratory technicians work in a wide range of organisations, including but not exclusively, chemical, primary and secondary pharmaceutical, biotechnology, formulated products, nuclear companies, and analytical science services. A laboratory technician may carry out both routine and one-off laboratory testing and perform a variety of technical support functions across the organisation. In any context working safety and ethically is paramount and many companies operate under highly regulated conditions because of the need to control the quality and safety of products, for example medicines. Laboratory technicians are expected to work both individually and as part of a laboratory team. They are able to work with minimum supervision, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work that is undertaken. They are proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving the business.
Key Information
Duration
Typically, this apprenticeship will take 18-24 months to complete
What apprentices will learn
• Work safely in a laboratory, maintaining excellent housekeeping whilst following appropriate safety, environment and risk management systems.
• Understand and follow quality procedures to meet the requirements of quality standards relevant to the workplace.
• Understand the internal and external regulatory environment pertinent to the sector and the employer and comply with regulations proficiently.
• Prepare for laboratory tasks using the appropriate scientific techniques, procedures and methods.
• Perform laboratory tasks following specified methodologies, such as Standard Operating Procedures.
• Demonstrate technical competence in the use of specified instrumentation and laboratory equipment, including calibration where required.
• Produce reliable, accurate data and keep accurate records of laboratory work undertaken and results.
• Communicate scientific information appropriately, including the use of Laboratory Information Management systems, either digital or paper based.
• Recognise problems and apply appropriate scientific methods to identify causes and achieve solution
You will attend North Lindsey College one day a week, and have access to support from a fully qualified assessor.
All apprentices must undertake an independent end- point assessment which is a synoptic assessment of the knowledge, skills and behaviours that have been learnt throughout the apprenticeship. The purpose of the assessment is to make sure the apprentice meets the standard set by employers and are fully competent in the occupation.
Apprentices without a level 2 English and mathematics will need to achieve this level prior to completion of their apprenticeship.
Apprentices must complete a level 3 or 4 qualification in a science or technology discipline relevant to their occupation, which is recognised for professional registration by RSciTech, prior to completing the end-point assessment. Example qualifications are detailed in the assessment plan for this standard.
Financial Support
Depending on your situation, you may be able to access a range of financial support available.
Course Fees
UK
£21,000 – Apprenticeship Levy payers will pay the full cost from their levy: employers with 49 or less staff with an apprentice aged 16-18 years will pay no fees; all other employers will pay 5%. Prices are subject to discussion and agreement based on circumstances.
Apply or enquire about this course
Please use the following links to make an application or enquiry about this course.
Information for EU Students
From January 2021, how you apply for a course will change. For more information, read the UK Government's guide for the UK points-based immigration system for EU students (pdf).
Visit our International pages for more information and contact details