Columnist

Industry-focused apprenticeships pave the way for a bright future in science manufacturing

As part of a brand-new series of apprenticeships developed to align with the needs of science manufacturing employers across the region, East Durham College have invested in an immersive learning experience that is set to shake up the industry. 

Since the recent installation of the half-million-pound industry-standard cleanroom laboratory at their Peterlee campus, Science Manufacturing Apprenticeship students have been immersing themselves in the revolutionary facilities, which feature the only realistic clean lab training environment in the region.

Nurturing Future Talent

Jack Mason, Science Manufacturing Apprentice, said: “I feel I am making good progress with the course. I’ve enjoyed pH (potential of Hydrogen) testing and weighing liquids in the last lab session. I am also enjoying learning about health and safety, and the impact on the environment and aquatic life by chemicals and plastics.”

East Durham College work closely with employers to identify the training gaps in science manufacturing, bringing together business and education to develop the industry, and cultivate future talent.

Joe Monks, Science Manufacturing Apprentice, said: “So far, I have a much-improved understanding of, and the ability to use both SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) and COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) forms, while following HASAWA (Health and Safety at Work Act) and the 5S System (a system for organising a safe and productive workspace).

“I am able to spot risks and complete risk assessments in and around the lab. I’ve enjoyed learning how to correctly use pipettes and balance in the lab environment.”

A Win-win for Employers and Apprentices

East Durham College’s innovative science manufacturing programmes teach everything from manufacturing processes and laboratory skills to quality management and regulations and collaborative working, equipping students with the specialist, hands-on skills required for a successful career in the growing science manufacturing sector.

Led by an innovator who brings a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to the college – including a Masters in Molecular Biology, a specialism in pharmaceuticals, and an impressive GSK and Fujifilm background – learners and employers are in expert hands.

Aisha Munro, MSc, AMRSB, Trainer, Coach, and Lecturer of the Science Manufacturing Apprenticeship programmes at East Durham College, said: “Our advanced immersive setup is completely unique. We ensure that students hit the industry with real on-the-job experience, having been exposed to practical industry processes from day one.

“Our realistic laboratory replicates a true cleanroom environment – even down to its changing facilities where students ‘gown up’ before entry. It’s an exciting time for businesses who take on a science manufacturing apprentice; they get to unearth new talent alongside upskilling existing employees.

Industry-led

Whether employers want to hire someone new or upskill an existing employee, East Durham College offer a tailored training experience to science manufacturing businesses across the North East.

Jackie Lanagan, Assistant Principal at EDC, said: “We have aligned our offer to meet the needs of our employers to ensure they are fully supported and offered a flexible approach to delivery, ensuring that training is accessible at a time and place that suits the needs of the business.”

Want to know more? 

To find out how a Science Manufacturing Apprenticeship could transform your business, email business@eastdurham.ac.uk, call 0191 518 5508, or visit their website.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by East Durham College .