Forensic apprentices make the grade as Registered Science Technicians

The first apprenticeship to be accredited is that of LGC, international science-based company and market leader in laboratory services. The training will be delivered in collaboration with training provider CSR Group. Their director, Rob Green, said: "CSR Group and LGC are providing qualifications, experience and employment for young peopleinterested in developing their own careers in science. 

"The RSciTech is a welcome addition to the apprentices' qualification portfolio. It will give added value and recognition of the practical skills the apprentices will have developed during their time with us and LGC." 

The graduation event is an opportunity for the apprentices and their guests to celebrate the successes of the apprenticeship and to reflect on how much they have developed through the scheme.

Holly Cant, Forensic Apprentice at LGC's Drayton Manor site, said: "For me the apprenticeship has been about gaining confidence in your own ability within the workplace and in the classroom, showing people in the workplace how much of the day-to-day job an apprentice can do and setting the boundaries for apprenticeships in the future.

"In the classroom we have learnt a lot of forensics knowledge which can then be applied to the methods we use every day.  

"Everyone has been extremely supportive and helpful all the way through the programme, including mentors and managers at my site, and all CSR staff.

"The apprenticeship has been a critical step in the right direction for many people, and has helped us all plan out for our futures."

Speakers at the graduation will also include Jaine Bolton, Chief Operating Officer at the National Apprenticeship Service and David Richardson, Chief Executive of LGC.

Notes for editors

Under licence from the Science Council the RSC can now award two new professional designations: Registered Scientist (RSci) and Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). Entry standards are based on a combination of knowledge and understanding, professional competence and commitment to professional ethics, conduct and continuing professional development (CPD).

RSC Affiliates that do not hold the required qualifications or experience may be eligible to apply for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) while Members (MRSC) may also be encouraged to register for Chartered Chemist (CChem) or Chartered Scientist (CSci) status.

What is RSci?

The RSci register is owned by the Science Council and is a new professional qualification providing recognition for those working in technical scientist roles. The RSci designation provides recognition in its own right but can also be a springboard to recognition as a Chartered Scientist (CSci).

Professional registration can benefit individuals by:

• providing recognition for the role you're in now, as well as a framework to support your future career development. 
• providing wider recognition for skills gained through work. 
• demonstrating your commitment to your career to employers, colleagues and clients.    

  What is RSciTech?

The RSciTech register is owned by the Science Council and is a new professional qualification providing recognition for technicians across the science sector. The RSciTech designation provides recognition in its own right but can also be a first step towards recognition as a Registered Scientist (RSci) and associated professional membership of a licensed body such as the RSC.

Professional registration can benefit individuals by:

• providing recognition for the role you're in now, as well as a framework to support your future career development. 
• providing wider recognition for skills gained through work. 
• demonstrating your commitment to your career to employers, colleagues and clients.