Accreditation of graduate training

in GSK UK Chemistry functions

22nd May 2007

Lyn Brennan

Academic Consultant

Harry Kelly

GSK Chemistry

Objectives of the accreditation of graduate training in GSK UK Chemistry functions

To have the existing in-house …

1. scientific training program validated, accredited and, if desired by the graduate, for the training to be used towards a higher education qualification.

2. business-driven research/development projects credited towards the award of a higher education qualification, probably an M.Phil.

GSK want a mechanism for advancing key graduate talent ‘tough environment’: large numbers of graduates

recruited across GSK UK Chemistry each year Extensive training in:-

– Synthetic chemistry– Medicinal chemistry– “Informatics” – Professional & interpersonal skills

Well regarded across the industry But not externally benchmarked or independently

assessed for cost-effectiveness or quality Not maximised as competitive advantage

(recruitment, retention, staff development)

The Project

In July 2005, UVAC approached GSK

– Proposal is funded jointly with DfES

– To accredit training in large companies

– To correlate with higher education qualifications (including where appropriate the accreditation of prior learning and experience)

All areas of GSK UK Chemistry wanted to participate in this exciting initiative

Initially focused on Research

Worked closely with two consultants identified by UVAC

Defined/agreed how our graduates acquire the ‘Postgraduate Certificate’

GSK Drug Discovery Process

ResearchChemical Development/

Analytical Manufacturing

For GSK, there are many benefits …

Increased motivation to

continuing scientific training

External academic input into in-house

training

Nationally recognised qualification

Tools & confidence to compete for

senior positions

External challenge &

benchmark of training

Motivated & competitive

graduate employees

Reassurance of business

benefits of investment in

training

Recruitment competitive edge

Pioneer a new approach to

investment in employees

Readily adaptable for

other functions

Increase reputation as a

preferred employer

Set new standard for higher

education in work place

GSK graduate employee GSK UK chemistry GSK Corporate

Key learning gained throughout this journey …

Training provided was good and now some courses are even better

Introduction of assessment will provide evidence of value being gained by participants

Initiative was universally supported by graduates and managers

Jargon (on both sides) has been the major barrier to overcome but we do have common goals

The consultants were absolutely key in the process (i.e. official interpreters)

But

QA Requirements very difficult

– especially the requirement for GSK to undertake an institutional audit

– HE Committee structures did not exist

– Felt to be overly bureaucratic

Jargon - on both sides

Assessment issues, especially ‘what will the external examiner see?’

Expensive and time-consuming process