Annabel Morris

I really enjoy solving problems in both my technical and apprentice support work. This was particularly key in delivering the solubility screening service as I was able to work with projects to design screens to answer specific questions or problems about a process, which was really rewarding. I also really enjoy helping others and trying to make a positive change through initiatives such as the Apprentice Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Group.

There are so many ways to pursue chemistry and I would really encourage exploring all options. Personally, taking the apprenticeship route over the traditional university approach was the right decision for me as I’ve not only gained a huge amount of work experience, but I’ve also learned a lot about myself and the way I work, which has been incredibly valuable.

The freedom we’re given as apprentices to determine our own development and create the support we need has been particularly rewarding. In my scientific work, I was able to second into a different team, which helped me gain different perspectives, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to learn new skills and broaden outside of my specialist role. Outside of my scientific role, I worked with two other apprentices to create and lead a new Apprentice Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Group, which is a particular highlight. The group helps promote mental health support services and create a space where the apprentice community can come together and share knowledge.

Starting work in September 2020, when the pandemic was still prevalent, and after relocating to Macclesfield for the apprenticeship, was an especially challenging time as it was much harder to meet people properly at work and settle into the huge change in environment. It took a long while to feel fully integrated into working life, but I was really lucky to have people around me going through the same thing and be able to support each other. After struggling with this transition myself, I was involved in developing a new relocation package, specifically for apprentices, to help with the 'moving away from home' aspect of starting an apprenticeship, hopefully making this less overwhelming for new apprentices.