Former Grangemouth High School pupil Emma Dawson, (18) believes that completing a Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies has been one of the best things she’s ever done.
She said: “I decided to study a Foundation Apprenticeship (FA) at Forth Valley College because it had been a course that I had wanted to do since I was in second year at high school. I had read about what it involved, and I was very interested in applying for. I was also very excited when I found out that in the second year I would have the opportunity to do work experience in a lab, which I completed with my school’s lab technician. I thought it would be very good experience for me.
“I also wanted to do a FA as I had read more about the courses you can apply for after you have completed it, including a Modern Apprenticeship (MA), which I am now doing. Applying for it is one of the best things I have ever done.
“I think that the lecturers are amazing and every single one has been very helpful towards me. If I had any questions, they were more than happy to try to explain things in a way that I understood - as everyone learns things differently. I used to be a very shy person who didn’t like to ask for help. However, all my lecturers were so kind and understanding and I being at college has really helped me to come out of my shell and has boosted my confidence. I could not be more grateful.
“As for the facilities - I think the college has facilities that suit everyone, including a cash machine, food and drink facilities, a library, sport and fitness facilities and more!
“I would recommend the FA course if you want to pursue a career in science as it’s a brilliant starting point. It’s very interesting and a combination of both Chemistry and Biology, which I personally really enjoyed. While at college on campus, you learn about different scientific techniques, which was one of my favourite parts of the course.
“I also think studying a FA really benefited me as during my second year, when I was doing my work experience. During this time, I had to gather evidence for the different outcomes so I could pass the course. This gave me the confidence to start the MA, as the courses are similar, so I knew what to expect in advance.
“For me, the best part about studying a FA at Forth Valley College is having this opportunity to gain work experience, which has given me evidence for my portfolio of progress and achievements during my apprenticeship.
“For my Life Sciences MA, I am currently working four days a week at LifeArc in Edinburgh, and I go to college one day a week.
“At LifeArc, my work involves maintenance and calibration on machinery - in other words make sure machinery is clean and working properly every month and in general make sure the labs are clean and tidy.
“Going down this path course was the best decision I’ve ever made, as every day brings different experiences. In the future I hope to have successfully passed my MA and continue working at LifeArc, as I love every minute there!”