Apprentices gain hands-on experience preparing experiments, testing samples, recording and analysing data, and maintaining equipment to professional standards. Alongside technical training, the programme builds core skills in health and safety, quality assurance and communication.
It suits employers recruiting a new laboratory assistant or technician, and those developing an existing colleague who would benefit from structured training.
We’ll review the apprentice’s job role to ensure it’s suitable for the programme. Typically, we would expect applicants to have GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above, although we encourage anyone interested to get in touch, as we can discuss individual circumstances and eligibility.
COURSE LEAFLET
Questions about funding, timing or whether this suits the role? We’re happy to help.
Open a stage to see the module it covers. the individual training plan confirms the teaching sequence and timing.
Understand the laboratory environment and the responsibilities that come with working safely, professionally and to the right standards.
Explore the behaviours expected in a laboratory team, the organisation’s purpose and how the apprentice’s work contributes to it.
In the workplace: connect individual responsibilities with the needs of colleagues, customers and the wider organisation
Understand safe working practices and why laboratory procedures must be followed. Explore how to respond to incidents and emergency situations.
In the workplace: Explain the safety procedures that apply to their own tasks and the action to take if something goes wrong.
Explore the regulations relevant to the apprentice’s laboratory and how these influence daily work.
In the workplace: Understand why a procedure exists and recognise the responsibilities involved in following it.
Understand how quality procedures support reliable laboratory work and consistent outcomes.
In the workplace: Follow agreed methods, maintain clear evidence and explain how their work meets the laboratory’s quality requirements.
Develop the skills needed to manage laboratory information effectively. Apprentices will learn how to handle data securely, manage stock and supplies, use statistics to interpret results and apply problem solving techniques to everyday laboratory challenges.
Explore laboratory information management systems, known as LIMS, alongside the responsible handling and protection of information.
In the workplace: Record and retrieve laboratory information carefully while respecting confidentiality and access requirements.
Understand stock control processes and how the availability of materials supports laboratory work.
In the workplace: Explain how stock is monitored and managed within their own laboratory.
Develop an understanding of statistics and how numerical information can be used to make sense of laboratory results.
In the workplace: Use appropriate numerical methods to support the interpretation of data from their role.
Explore structured approaches to investigating problems and identifying suitable solutions.
In the workplace: Work through a laboratory issue methodically and explain the reasoning behind a proposed solution.
Focus on putting learning into practice in the workplace. Apprentices will demonstrate their developing skills, identify opportunities for continuous improvement and use feedback and reflection to build confidence and improve their performance.
Bring learning together through workplace observation and evidence from the apprentice’s own role.
In the workplace: Show how laboratory tasks are planned and completed using the appropriate procedures.
Identify opportunities to improve laboratory processes and consider how changes could make work more effective.
In the workplace: Explore an improvement idea relevant to their own team and discuss its potential benefits.
Use learning reflections, feedback and progress reviews to recognise achievements and agree the next steps.
In the workplace: Discuss progress with their line manager and CSR, then set practical development targets.
Review the evidence gathered throughout the programme, identify any remaining development needs and prepare for the assessment requirements that apply.
In the workplace: Preparation includes reviewing knowledge, discussing workplace examples and understanding what to expect from assessment.
Reflect on the skills developed and discuss how the apprentice can continue to grow within their role.
In the workplace: Use the final stage to discuss future responsibilities and development opportunities.
Still weighing up if this is right for your team?
We’re happy to talk it through.
Yes, it can be an option for an existing employee who has suitable development needs. We’ll review their role, experience and previous learning to check whether the programme is a good fit.
The typical duration is 18 to 24 months, depending on whether an academic qualification is included. We’ll explain the full timescale, including assessment, when we plan the programme with you.
Apprentices will complete a set number of ‘off-the-job’ training hours throughout the programme, which will vary depending on their chosen pathway. Training takes place during normal working hours and includes taught sessions, practical activities, assignments and workplace learning. We’ll confirm the total hours required and work with employers to plan how training fits around day to day responsibilities.
Employers can access up to 100% funding towards apprenticeship training costs, depending on their circumstances and the apprentice’s eligibility. Additional financial incentives may also be available. We’ll explain the funding options, any employer contributions and incentives your organisation may qualify for.
Contact us for the next available cohort and the steps needed before enrolment. We can discuss timing alongside your recruitment or staff development plans.
Absolutely! We can support you throughout the recruitment process, from writing and advertising your vacancy across multiple platforms to reviewing applications, shortlisting suitable candidates and supporting with interviews. Our recruitment support is provided at no additional cost to employers.
