The Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine (IGMM) is delighted to be hosting its first Modern Apprentice. Image Connor Warnock, 2018 apprentice Connor Warnock is enjoying being the IGMM Design and Publication Modern Apprentice Assistant. He began his 18 month Apprenticeship in October and is already making a positive impact using the skills he learned during his HND course in Visual Communication: Graphic Design at Edinburgh College, and when working for a range of Scottish design agencies. He is using new equipment and graphic design software to expand his skillset and has been greatly helped by Craig Nicol, the Design and Publications specialist at IGMM. Connor is also learning new skills in photography and videography, including attending photography training courses at Edinburgh College. A modern apprenticeship is a good stepping-stone into the industry, particularly an industry that is hard to get into without experience. Connor Warnock, IGMM Design and Publication Modern Apprentice Assistant Institute of Genetic and Molecular Medicine Connor finds it particularly fascinating to work at the Institute, based at the Western General Hospital, where he is discovering more about how it brings together engineers, scientists and clinicians to study human health and diseases such as cancer. More than 600 people work at the Institute and Connor loves the fact that every day is different, meeting new people and learning about their work. He has always been interested in both art and biology so he is delighted to be able to use all that knowledge and experience to communicate visually the research that takes place there. This can be by helping design logos and conference programmes or creating animations that explain complicated biological processes. Modern Apprenticeships The Modern Apprenticeships initiative enables young people to earn while they acquire the skills they need to succeed in their chosen career. The apprenticeships offer high quality work-based learning that enable young people to learn on the job, working on real projects with experienced colleagues, alongside study at a Further Education college. It is a structured programme which leads to an industry-approved qualification. The Modern Apprentice qualification is accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. The goal of the national programme is to help create a skilled workforce that’s ready to face the future. Mentoring High School pupils The University also offers work experience to high school pupils so they can learn directly about the world of work. The IGMM is currently hosting Joseph Flower, an S6 pupil from Dunbar Grammar School. Joseph is a talented Videographer and is working with Dee Davison, IGMM Communications and Public Engagement Manager and Craig Nicol. More information Meet the University of Edinburgh’s Modern Apprentices Youth & Student Employment Modern Apprentices make their mark This article was published on 2024-07-22
