Our Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences is designed for individuals aspiring to support scientific investigations in laboratory environments, playing a key role in the development, testing, and analysis of materials, medicines, and biological samples.
Working under the supervision of scientists and senior technicians, you will contribute to essential tasks such as preparing experiments, operating laboratory equipment, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This apprenticeship not only equips individuals with the technical competencies required in biomedical and pharmaceutical settings, but also develops transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
You will meet with your Apprenticeship Assessor every 4 weeks, remotely, for approximately one hour. During this session, your assessor will help you gather workplace evidence and link your curriculum learning with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) that make up the apprenticeship standard. Your assessor will also discuss the tasks you're working on in your workplace and assign activities that integrate curriculum study, KSBs, and real-world tasks, allowing you to generate solid evidence. You will then gather this evidence and upload it to your e-portfolio.
You will need exposure to relevant workplace experience in order to gather evidence that meets the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours outlined in the Professional Standard.
While Maths and English Functional Skills are optional, you will need one of the following qualifications to be eligible:
If you're interested in science and want to progress in the industry, the Laboratory Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship is a brilliant way to enhance your career aspirations. You'll gain hands-on experience in real lab environments, learning to use scientific equipment and follow professional procedures while getting paid to train—no student debt required. Alongside an industry recognised CertHE in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences. you'll build a strong foundation for further study or roles like lab analyst, research technician, or quality control scientist.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you'll develop a wide range of scientific, technical, and transferable skills. From performing lab tests and analysing data to understanding safety regulations and working to industry standards like GMP and GLP, you’ll be equipped for success in the life sciences. You'll also sharpen your problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, all while building valuable connections with professionals in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors. If you're ready to step into a science career with real momentum, this apprenticeship is your ideal opportunity.
If you decided to take the Level 3 Laboratory Technician with a qualification you will study the modules listed below. All modules are 20 credits.
STEM Toolkit – both pathways -20 credits
The purpose of this module is to enable apprentices to acquire and develop a range of skills, especially focussed on the STEM 7 skills: creative thinking, communication, problem solving, investigative, data interpretation, team working and organisational skills.
Biomolecules and cells – both pathways - 20 credits
This module will allow apprentices to explore the structure of the fundamental building blocks of life and explore the structure of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic cells, gaining an understanding of basic cellular processes.
Integrated Practical Skills – both pathways - 20 credits
This module will cover key practical techniques commonly used in chemical and biological laboratories. The apprentices will have the opportunity to use a range of equipment in the laboratory and develop confidence and competence in performing several standard, industrially relevant procedures.
Data Analysis – both pathways – 20 credits
This module will develop the knowledge of statistical techniques and procedures and enable apprentices to select the most appropriate data analysis techniques and apply them in scientific contexts.
Anatomy and Physiology (for the Biology Pathway) – 20 credits
This module allows apprentices to gain an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of normal tissues, organs and systems of organs and describe major pathophysiological conditions.
Biochemistry (for the Biology Pathway) – 20 credits
This module will cover the major biochemical processes which occur inside all cells. The apprentices will explore how complex biochemical pathways work and contribute to cellular function.
Physical and Inorganic Chemistry (for the Chemistry Pathway) – 20 credits
This module covers a broad range of fundamental concepts in chemistry and introduces topics that will be important for apprentices giving the opportunity to further develop important practical skills.
Organic Chemistry (for the Chemistry pathway) – 20 credits
This module covers topics in organic chemistry, especially those of relevance to life science. The module will explore the chemistry of common organic compounds as well as giving apprentices the opportunity to experience some synthetic and analytical practical activities.
You will be assessed throughout the duration of your apprenticeship. There are three parts to the End-Point Assessment (EPA) for the Level 3 apprenticeship:
If you choose the Level 3 apprenticeship without a qualification your assessor will ensure to provide online learning materials to support you while gaining the knowledge component of this standard.
You will still have one day per week dedicated to your training, for two years.
Upon successful completion of this apprenticeship, you could go on to complete the Level 6 Degree Scientist apprenticeship, or continue employment in your current field.
Job opportunities this apprenticeship may open include:
