From Friday, 7 to Sunday, 16 March, British Science Week 2025 is a chance to celebrate everything about science and the amazing contributions made by professionals within this field. This year’s theme, “Change and Adapt,” encourages us to reflect on how humans, animals, and technology evolve to meet the challenges of a growing population and changing environment. 

The event also highlights how the field of science and the role of scientists have evolved. Historically, what once was once largely a male-dominated field has become a space where individuals from all corners of the globe are represented. 

Degree apprenticeships play a key role in diversifying the science sector, offering a practical route for people to gain qualifications, industry experience, and long-term careers, especially for those who may not have considered a traditional university path. 

The role of degree apprenticeships in advancing science 

Our recent report, Force for Impact, shows how science apprenticeships are an important tool for social mobility and creating equality in the workplace. The report highlights that 42% of our apprentices in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are women, exceeding the national benchmark of 27% by 15 percentage points.  

Take for example the story a Laboratory Science (Chemical Science) degree apprentice with Stepan, Chantelle Minchin. She found in our programmes the right opportunity to enrol back in educations after a long break. She explains: 

 “For me, an apprenticeship was the perfect choice. I had been out of work and study for a long time because of illness, but I was eager to get back into employment while also gaining a degree that would open doors for career growth.” 

Chantelle joined the apprenticeship programme to level up from a supporting laboratory role, where she wasn’t able to develop the skills needed for more advanced laboratory work or reach the qualifications for higher positions. 

“In my previous laboratory roles, I was simply following set standard operating procedures and now I am learning how to determine, produce and adapt standard operating procedures. In addition, I am being introduced to wider industry operations to understand how the business functions and how I can contribute. I feel that this is preparing me for leadership roles in the future.” 

She is also autistic and shared that, despite being open about her disability, she often struggles with confidence and feels a strong need to prove her abilities. She explained that the programme has helped boost her confidence, and with support from both the university and her employer, she has learned to manage her anxieties and focus her efforts more effectively.  

Today, she is an active member of the science community and has founded the Enable Science Network, with funding from the Royal Society of Chemistry, to raise awareness about scientists with disabilities. Read her full apprenticeship story. 

Championing diversity and unlocking new talent 

British Science Week serves as a reminder that the science community thrives when it reflects the diversity of society.  

Take, for example, Christina Dumitriu Jackson, a Laboratory Scientist (Chemical Science) degree apprentice at AstraZeneca. As the daughter of immigrant parents, Christina grew up in a predominantly white area where she and her brother faced racism. When she shared her aspirations, many told her to "be more realistic."  

The apprenticeship programme provided Christina with the ideal opportunity to become a scientist while gaining valuable hands-on experience. Today, she is a passionate advocate for STEM and apprenticeships. She shared: 

“I want to support and be an example for younger students who have been told their dreams are out of reach, encouraging them to bring their bright and diverse ideas into the world. I haven’t looked back since starting my apprenticeship. I’m incredibly grateful for the endless opportunities and invaluable relationships I’ve built.” 

Christina recently won the ‘Bionow Rising Star: One to Watch Award’ at the Bionow Awards 2024 for her leadership in green chemistry and laboratory automation, significantly advancing sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in her work as a degree apprentice. Read her full apprenticeship story.

Our Force for Impact report also highlights the important role degree apprenticeships play in fostering diversity across industries. The report found that: 

• 19% of apprentices come from minority ethnic backgrounds

• 12% have disclosed a disability 

• 61% are the first generation in their family to attend university 

These diverse voices in the industry not only strengthen the scientific community but also bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to problem-solving. 

Our science degree apprenticeships 

At Manchester Met, we offer the Scientist (Chemical Science) and Scientist (Bioscience) degree apprenticeships, as well as the Healthcare Scientist Practitioner programme. As part of the apprenticeship, apprentices are invited to attend a residential week at our Manchester Met Campus. In January, we welcomed over 250 science apprentices from across the country to learn, network and gain hands-on experience. The week is designed to help apprentices grow and prepare for the next steps in their careers. 

During the week, apprentices took part in study skills sessions, end-point assessment preparations, a research symposium, and networking events to build industry connections. 

The event also featured practical sessions in over 20 laboratories, allowing apprentices to apply their theoretical knowledge. Representatives from organisations like the Royal Society of Biology, World Skills UK, and The Science Council were also present to discuss professional registrations and outreach initiatives. 

Get involved 
Our science programmes go beyond traditional learning, they make science accessible to everyone and create opportunities for emerging talent to thrive.  

If you're interested in learning more about how you can offer these programmes within your organisation, join our free webinar on Thursday, 13 March. Reserve your place.

Find out more about our science programmes.