SOCOTEC UK’s Lab Technician completes her Apprenticeship

How have you found the apprenticeship here at SOCOTEC

My time here has been a journey of learning, growth, and discovery. I have thoroughly enjoyed being an apprentice at SOCOTEC as I’ve learnt a lot about the industry and picked up a range of skills that have been honed and developed over the course of my programme. Where I faced challenges, I was guided by the team around me in a way that prompted independence and growth.

What did your programme entail?

My apprenticeship was a level three NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities (LATA). The programme consisted of assignments, coursework, and exams that helped me gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry and develop my skills. The final piece of my apprenticeship was the end point assessment (EPA), which consisted of a professional discussion based on my portfolio, a three-hour observation, and a written knowledge test. I am proud to say that I passed my EPA and am now a certified laboratory technician.

Who was the training provider and what was the title of your apprenticeship?

Tiro was my training provider and I studied a level three NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities (LATA). 

What are your next steps for your career?

With my apprenticeship now behind me, I am excited to embark on the next phase of my career. My new job title is laboratory technician, I am looking forward to this new challenge and am eager to continue learning and growing in my new role.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship at SOCOTEC?

Yes definitely. I would highly recommend an apprenticeship at SOCOTEC to anyone who is interested in the industry or looking to further their existing knowledge. The training and support provided by SOCOTEC and Tiro are second to none, and the opportunities for growth and advancement are endless. I was able to meet other apprentices from different courses and locations, which helped me gain a better understanding of the business as a whole.

What accomplishment you have achieved during your programme are you most proud of and why?

Of all the things I have achieved during my apprenticeship, I am most proud of how far I have come with my confidence. Over time, I have grown more comfortable in my role and have become more confident in my abilities. This is largely due to the encouragement and support I have received from my colleagues and superiors at SOCOTEC. I am now better equipped to network, ask questions, and learn more freely, which will be invaluable to me in my future career.

What advice would you give to our current apprentices?

For current apprentices, my advice is to focus on each task and assignment individually, so as not to get overwhelmed by the thought of what lies ahead. I would also encourage them to ask for help and ask questions whenever they need to. The people around you are the best people to learn from, and the more questions you ask, the more you will learn.

What is your new job title and what are your responsibilities

My new job title is laboratory technician and my responsibilities include preparing and testing samples, similar to what I did during my apprenticeship. The difference now is that I am doing this on a full-time basis, with no off-the-job training, and have more independence in my work.