GSK announced the launch of a new multi-disciplinary apprenticeship scheme.
The programme, which will sit alongside GSK's established graduate and
undergraduate recruitment schemes, is aimed at 16-24 year olds and will offer
positions at the company's UK manufacturing, R&D and corporate sites. The
scheme will commence in August this year and GSK will take on 40 apprentices in
the first intake. The company has historically taken on a number of engineering
apprentices, however this new integrated scheme will offer IT, R&D
Laboratory Technician, Manufacturing, Supply Chain management and Artwork
Design opportunities. The full list of sites offering apprenticeships is
Barnard Castle, GSK House (London), Irvine, Maidenhead, Montrose, Slough,
Ulverston, Ware and Worthing.
Apprenticeships will last between two and four years depending on the
discipline. All roles will consist of a combination of on-the-job training and
study modules. In addition to a competitive base salary, apprentices will
benefit from a personalised training plan and a GSK mentor, who will provide
advice and support over the duration of the programme. Should an apprentice
demonstrate the skills and behaviour GSK is looking for, they will be offered a
role with the company at the end of the programme.
Natalie Woodford, SVP, Talent, Leadership & Organisation Development at
GSK said: "GSK is committed to attracting and developing talent at all
levels, and youth training and apprenticeships have a vital role in building
the right skills our employees need for the future. We are delighted to
announce this programme today, which will give young people hands-on experience
in the life sciences industry; a key sector for the UK."
Skills Minister John Hayes MP said: "The Government has significantly
increased investment in apprenticeships because we know they work for
businesses and employees. The unique combination of high-quality training and
meaningful work experience they offer helps to build a workforce with the
skills our economy needs to grow. I am delighted that GSK are not only hiring
new apprentices, but also expanding their programme to cover a wide range of
new disciplines."
The apprenticeship scheme is complementary to GSK’s existing programmes to
attract the best young talent. Last year, the company announced plans to
reimburse 100% of uncapped tuition fees for up to 100 students recruited under
the company's graduate scheme. GSK also takes on hundreds of undergraduates
annually in the UK, on year-long industrial placements across the business.
In addition, the company is undertaking a 'Scientists in Sport' programme,
in partnership with King's College London, which is designed to showcase how
science will be used during the London Olympic and Paralympic Games and inspire
young people into a range of scientific careers.
Overall, GSK employs around 15,000 people in the UK across R&D,
manufacturing and corporate functions. The company is also the UK's largest
private sector funder of R&D.