SOCOTEC UK’s apprentice, Ismail Akbar, has now completed his lab technician level three apprenticeship and laboratory associated technical activities NVQ. To celebrate Ismail’s achievement, we sat down with him to reflect on the training programme and what he now has to look forward to in his career.
How have you found the apprenticeship here at SOCOTEC?
I have had a great experience as an apprentice at SOCOTEC. There has been a lot to learn, both in terms of the coursework and my job role, but I have found the perfect balance which has made this journey an enjoyable one.
What did your programme entail?
My programme entailed both theory and practical work.
Who was the training provider and what was the title and result of your apprenticeship?
The programme was split into two parts: an NVQ and an Apprenticeship Standard. The first part was made up of coursework, with different modules that had to be completed with set deadlines. The second part consisted of an End Point Assessment (EPA) which I had to pass. The EPA uses knowledge, skills and behaviours as criteria that I had to meet. The training provider for my apprenticeship was Tiro. I am happy to of passed the lab technician apprenticeship and the NVQ level three laboratory associated technical activities.
What are your next steps for your career?
Moving forward, my next steps for my career are to continue my development at SOCOTEC within my current role as a lab technician. I plan to add to my knowledge through experience and further learning opportunities that come my way.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship at SOCOTEC?
I would highly recommend an apprenticeship at SOCOTEC to anyone looking to progress in their career. The working environment is great, and the opportunity to balance learning and work makes it a perfect choice for anyone wanting to reach their goals.
What accomplishment you have achieved during your programme are you most proud of and why?
One of the accomplishments that I am most proud of is completing my EPA. It was a tough challenge that took nearly an entire day to complete, but I was able to overcome it and achieve my goal. Achieving the programme will always be a proud one for me.
What advice would you give to our current apprentices?
Balancing work and studying can be difficult, so it is important to ask for help and support when you need it. Seeking help can reduce stress that you may have and give you more time for assistance to complete your work.
What is your new job title and what are your responsibilities?
I am now a Laboratory Technician, and my responsibilities include:
- Recording and analysing data
- Maintaining
- Calibrating
- Cleaning equipment
- Preparing and testing samples to the correct standards
- Presenting results for reporting
- Disposing of tested samples correctly.
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