Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship Overview

Duration: 24 Months

Level: 3

Levy funded: Yes

The Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3) is designed to equip learners with the practical skills, scientific knowledge, and safety awareness required to support high-quality laboratory operations across research, quality control, and product development environments.

The programme develops technicians capable of delivering reliable experimental results, maintaining laboratory equipment, and contributing to continuous improvement in scientific processes.

Aligned with real laboratory settings, the apprenticeship helps employers maintain accuracy, efficiency, and compliance while supporting professional development for new and existing staff.

What the Apprenticeship Delivers for Employers

Apprentices develop the capability to:

Work safely in laboratory environments following HSE and risk management procedures
Prepare and perform laboratory tasks using approved scientific methods
Produce accurate and reliable data, maintaining detailed laboratory records
Analyse, interpret, and evaluate experimental results, escalating issues when required
Communicate scientific information effectively, including using digital or paper-based Laboratory Information Management systems (LIMS)
Support quality control, research, and development activities with precision and professionalism

Apprenticeship details

How does it work?

Who's it for?

Knowledge and skills

Duration

Pricing and funding

The Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship is delivered through a blended model combining online learning, workplace assessment, and practical workshops.

Delivery Model

1 day per week online knowledge delivery
Workplace-based assessment of laboratory competence
3-day practical workshop at the National STEM Centre, York
3-day exam residential at Cogent Skills Head Office, Warrington (if qualification chosen)
Ongoing review and support throughout the programme

Apprentices apply learning directly in their operational role, building scientific competence while contributing to laboratory productivity. Regular progress reviews ensure development aligns with employer requirements and pathway specialism.

Designed for employers in laboratories across sectors such as research, quality control, food and drink, materials testing, and product development.

The apprenticeship is ideal for:

New laboratory staff
Existing technicians progressing to Level 3 roles
Employees specialising in quality control, R&D, or analytical techniques

Typical Job Roles:

Core Capabilities

Work safely and maintain laboratory housekeeping standards
Prepare, conduct, and record laboratory experiments accurately
Analyse and interpret data, identifying results that require further investigation
Communicate scientific information effectively, including using LIMS
Support quality assurance, research, and experimental development

Knowledge Modules

Principles and Applications of Science | Practical Scientific Procedures & Techniques | Quality in Science & Technology Industries | Microbiology (optional module) | Process Chemistry (optional module) | Principles of Process Control & Fault Diagnosis (optional module) | Water for Process Industries (optional module) | Mixing & Blending Techniques (optional module)

Typically up to 24 months, depending on prior experience and employer requirements.

Includes:

Structured knowledge training
Practical workshop delivery
Workplace competency development
End-Point Assessment

By the end of the programme, apprentices are fully equipped to work safely and competently in laboratory environments, supporting reliable experimental outcomes and high-quality scientific operations.

Laboratory Technician Level 3 is funded through the UK Apprenticeship Levy.

Levy-Paying Employers

Apprenticeship training can be funded through your Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.

Levy funds can be used to train both new recruits and existing employees.

In most cases, if you have sufficient levy funds available, the training costs will be fully covered.

Non-Levy Employers

Apprenticeship training is largely funded by the government.

Most employers pay only a small contribution towards the cost, and in some cases, training may be fully funded depending on eligibility.

Funding covers all training and assessment costs.

Enquire today to find out more

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Why we're different

We’re an apprenticeship training provider, trusted by the world’s leading science and process employers.

Specialist provider in Science & Process manufacturing

Training by Industry experienced tutors

National provider with
employers across England

Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted

Flexible start dates throughout the year

Bespoke programmes tailored to your shift patterns

Rated ‘Excellent’ by customers on Find an Apprenticeship service

Comprehensive support provided throughout the apprenticeship

How it Works

1. Free Consultation

We provide a free scoping session, which includes everything from identifying training to match job descriptions, to understanding the apprenticeship levy funding process.

2. Enrolment

We enrol/induct the learner and develop a bespoke delivery plan based on the requirements of the business and/or apprenticeship standard.

3. Delivery

Over the duration of the training we support the learner in the workplace with face to face and remote delivery. We also provide any support needed for the apprentices mentor or line manager.