Accreditation of graduate training in GSK UK Chemistry functions 22nd May 2007 Harry Kelly GSK Chemistry Lyn Brennan Academic Consultant

Objectives of the accreditation of graduate training in GSK UK Chemistry functions To have the existing in-house … scientific training program validated, accredited and, if desired by the graduate, for the training to be used towards a higher education qualification. 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)

Chemical Development/ All areas of GSK UK Chemistry wanted to participate in this exciting initiative Chemical Development/ Analytical Research Manufacturing GSK Drug Discovery Process Initially focused on Research Worked closely with two consultants identified by UVAC Defined/agreed how our graduates acquire the ‘Postgraduate Certificate’

For GSK, there are many benefits … Tools & confidence to compete for senior positions Reassurance of business benefits of investment in training Pioneer a new approach to investment in employees Increased motivation to continuing scientific training Motivated & competitive graduate employees Readily adaptable for other functions External academic input into in-house training External challenge & benchmark of training Increase reputation as a preferred employer Nationally recognised qualification Recruitment competitive edge 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