Apprenticeships

The Institute apprenticeship scheme provides the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification and develop professional skills.

Apprenticeships offered at the Institute cover careers such as: Business Admin, Engineering, IT and Science. Many of our apprentices have gone on to be employed by the Institute once they have qualified and continue to receive career development. 

The apprenticeships offered are run in collaboration with our local colleges. Apprentices are employed by the Institute on a fixed term contract which includes the following benefits (but not limited to): £15,919 per annum salary, 25 days holiday, paid sick leave and a pension scheme.

Example apprenticeships

Lab Technician
- 2 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
- Tutor delivers BTEC course at our campus so no additional travel required.

Business Administration:

  • 2 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
  • Assessed on site, only attend college for invigilated exams

Information Services (IT):

  • 2 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
  • Assessed on site, only attend college for invigilated exams

Mechanical Engineering:

  • 3 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
  • Day release, 1 day per week during term time

Electrical Engineering:

  • 3 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
  • Day release, 1 day per week during term time

Building Management Services (electronics):

  • 3 years supported by one of valued apprenticeship training partners
  • Day release, 1 day per week during term time

Work experience

The Pirbright Institute fully supports helping to develop and inspire the next generation of scientists through our outreach programme. 

It is however with regret that we cannot offer work experience placements due to the nature of the work conducted on site. 

The viruses at Pirbright are largely exotic to the UK and therefore have to be kept under high containment. Working under licence in this environment is not compatible with short term placements because it necessitates personal security vetting in addition to lengthy training in aspects of Biosafety.