FORMER Bosworth student Lois Boyes did just that. Lois achieved A*A*A in Biology, French and Chemistry at A-level, in the summer of 2017, and was considering a year’s work experience, with a view to applying to go to university in September 2018.
So, having researched her options, she found and applied to a company called Cogent Skills who were advertising on the Government UK website for science apprenticeships. From this Lois has secured herself a three-year apprenticeship with Vertex Pharmaceuticals in Abingdon, Oxfordshire.
“Vertex creates new possibilities in medicine to cure diseases and improve people’s lives,” said Lois. “We work with leading researchers, doctors, public health experts and other collaborators who share our vision for transforming the lives of people with serious diseases, their families and society.”
They are a worldwide organisation with offices in over 13 countries, so lots of room for development and opportunity. Lois receives an annual salary whilst training and the company cover the cost of the university course. Lois will study for a degree in Applied Bioscience Technology at the University of Kent while working. Lois will work five days a week at Vertex, but is allowed 20 per cent study time, so this will mean she has Tuesday and Thursday afternoons free for study. In her first year she will cover the following four modules: Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Applied Chemistry and Microbiology. In the summer Lois will attend a two-week practical at the University of Kent to test her laboratory skills.
It is early days for Lois, she started with Vertex a few weeks ago and she is currently shadowing her supervisor who is working on a number of different projects. After initial training, Lois will be based in the tissue culture lab; here, cells are grown to produce specific proteins which are then harvested for use in the next stage of the research and development process.
Bosworth College is looking forward to further updates as Lois moves through her apprenticeship and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
Lois excelled during her time at Bosworth, saying: “My time at Bosworth has been an ideal opportunity for me. Small class sizes and supportive teachers have helped me to progress academically, and I appreciated a feeling of positivity and mutual respect.”
To find out more about Bosworth Independent College, call 01604 235090 or email
Bosworth College will be holding an Open Evening on Thursday 25 January 2018 for anyone considering their options at GCSE, BTEC or A-level, or who wish to learn more about applying to university.
Bosworth College works with students from 14 to 19 years of age and has a range of flexible options including; one or two-year GCSE, BTEC and A-level programmes. It has a strong track record of placing students on competitive university courses and experienced staff are keen to share their knowledge.
Visit the college from 7pm on Thursday, 25 January at Bosworth Hall, 33 St. George’s Avenue, Northampton, NN2 6JA Contact Admissions on 01604 235090 to register your interest.