Park Apprentices: nurturing talent

This National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke to apprentices and interns at Milton Park to find out what it’s really like to learn on the job. From engineering and IT to research operations and programme management, this talented bunch are gaining experience whilst making a big impact on the Park.

Alice Williams, Research Operations and Programme Management Intern at Immunocore 

Hi Alice! Can you tell us about Immunocore and what drew you to this internship? 

Immunocore is a global commercial-stage biotech company that is investigating immunotherapies for cancer, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases. 

Though I studied Natural Sciences at the University of Bath, I’ve always been interested in the commercial aspects of the industry and learning how biotech and pharmaceutical companies operate.  

Immunocore works closely with universities to recruit interns and has a good reputation for student placements. When I came across a role that combined science with business and project management, I knew it was the perfect fit for me! 

What do you enjoy most about your role? 

It’s great to be surrounded by like-minded people who are enthusiastic about their niche and love talking about their work. The people here really know their stuff and it’s a privilege to be learning from them. 

Do you have any tips for those looking for a commercial role in STEAM? 

Get to know the company inside out. In business-focused roles, candidates can often underestimate the importance of knowing the industry. Showing an interest and understanding of the science behind the business will go a long way in the application process. 

Would you recommend an internship or apprenticeship to others? 

I would definitely recommend doing a placement. Before this, I had no idea what it was like to work in the industry. The experience of leading team meetings and managing real projects has been invaluable in developing my skillset and growing confidence. 

Callum Cox, Groundworks Apprentice at Barnwood Limited 

Hi Callum, please can you tell us a about Barnwood Limited? 

Barnwood Limited is a construction and fit-out company which worked on Milton Park’s £40m sustainable development, Nebula. The company has three divisions: Construction, Shopfitting & Interiors and General Works and I work as a Groundworks Apprentice in the Construction Division. 

What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in construction and what does your role involve? 

My dad worked in the construction industry all his life and he inspired me to follow in his footsteps. 

I always wanted a role with variety and loved the idea of working outside. My tasks vary from digging trenches and installing drainage to preparing grounds for foundations and operating machinery. It always helps that I get to work with such a great team, too! 

I hope to progress in the construction industry and one day become a Site Supervisor. 

What was it like working on the construction of Nebula? 

It was fantastic to see the project through from start to finish. It was my first time working with  glulam timber frames which was really interesting. It’s also believed to be a UK-first for using glulam within an R&D workspace. 

 The final building looks incredible and I’m proud to have been part of the team that delivered it. 

Would you recommend an apprenticeship in construction? 

Yes, it’s a great way to learn while working and earning a qualification. You gain hands-on experience and learn from highly skilled professionals. 

George Soanes, Apprentice Laboratory Technician at LTi Metaltech 

Hi George! Can you tell us a bit about LTi Metaltech? 

LTi Metaltech specialises in precision fabrication and welding, catering to industries like healthcare, renewable energy and nuclear fusion from its Milton Park base. 

How have things been going since you won the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards’ Rising Star? 

Things have been going well! I’ve been developing my skills further, learning new test procedures and expanding my machining experience. My responsibilities have grown too. I’m now more involved in customer communication and ensuring we meet their specific requirements. It’s been great to take on more responsibility and I enjoy pushing myself. 

What do you hope to achieve in your career moving forward? 

I want to continue learning and developing my skills so I can make an impact in the industry. My goal is to become an accomplished engineer and solve real-world problems. 

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in engineering? 

Go for it! With the right attitude, there’s no limit to what you can learn and do. 

Read more about George Soane’s journey as an apprentice in his Park People article, here. 

James Wood, Welding and Fabricating Apprentice at LTi Metaltech 

Hi James! What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in welding and fabricating? 

I’ve always been fascinated by how things are designed and built so an apprenticeship was the perfect way to gain hands-on experience while earning a qualification. I work in precision metal fabrication, welding high-quality components and learning from experienced technicians. Every day brings a new challenge and I love improving my skills. 

Would you recommend an apprenticeship to someone considering a career in STEM? 

Yes, absolutely! Apprenticeships are a great way to gain practical experience and learn as you earn. You also get to build good connections within the industry which is helpful as you progress. 

What do you hope to achieve in your career moving forward? 

I want to continue developing my technical skills, take on more responsibility and eventually move into a leadership role in engineering. 

Milosz Zelazinski, Technical Support Apprentice at CTS Group 

Hi Milosz, please can you tell us about CTS? 

CTS Group is an IT support company based at Milton Park that provides internet and IT services across the UK. 

What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship in IT and what does your role involve? 

IT is a complex but rewarding field. I enjoy problem-solving and helping people who need support. Currently, I support users with IT issues, from small troubleshooting tasks to larger collaborative projects. Every day is different, which keeps things exciting. 

I hope to continue developing my knowledge and skills so that I can provide excellent customer support and eventually take on a more senior role. 

Would you recommend an apprenticeship in IT? 

Yes! It’s a great way to gain hands-on experience while receiving the support needed to grow in the industry. 

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