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

2. 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.

3. 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)

4. 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)

5. 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’

6. 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

7. 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)

8. 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