Apprenticeship - Science Technician (Lab Technician Level 3)

The Norton Knatchbull School; Ashford; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

The Norton Knatchbull School is seeking an organised and resilient Lab Technician Apprentice to support science teaching and practical work. You will prepare experiments and organise equipment for GCSE and A Level lessons, contributing to a positive learning environment.

The role offers a Level 3 Lab Technician Apprenticeship, with 37 hours per week during term-time and a salary around £20,273 FTE. Duration is approximately 18–20 months, based in our two well-equipped laboratories in Ashford.

Qualifications

• Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade 5 or above)
• Level 3 qualifications (A Levels, BTECs and TLevels within Science) desirable
• Good communication, literacy and numeracy skills
• Computer literacy and adaptability to health and safety requirements

Responsibilities

• Prepare practical lessons and set up equipment for science experiments
• Provide ongoing support to the Science faculty and teachers during lessons
• Assist with the GCSE and A Level 'Required Practical' activities
• Maintain and organize laboratory equipment and spaces in well-equipped laboratories

Skills

Communication

Literacy

Numeracy

Computer literacy

Education

Level 2 English & Maths

Level 3 qualifications desirable

Job description

SCIENCE TECHNICIAN

Level 3 Lab Technician Apprenticeship

The Norton Knatchbull School is seeking an organised, professional, positive and resilient apprentice, who has a desire for pursuing a career in the science/education sector.

Level 3

Salary -: £20,273 FTE / £ / £17,477.35 pro-rata.

08:00 - 16:00 (37 hours per week, term-time only)

Expected duration: 18-20 months

We are looking for a Lab Technician to support and enhance the teaching of a range of Science subjects. You will provide practical and technical support for teachers delivering Science lessons by preparing experiments and organising equipment. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wishing to gain valuable experience in a school environment, possibly as part of their career development.

Key tasks are to prepare practical lessons and provide continued support to the Science faculty. The laboratories are very well equipped and includes two new labs within our Digital Learning Centre. We currently have large numbers of students studying A Level Sciences; many of whom go onto to study Science-based undergraduate courses. Being adaptable and willing to take on all challenges is essential, as is an interest in all areas of Science.

The successful candidate will possess a positive outlook and have good communication, literacy and numeracy skills. Technical expertise is preferred as a large part of the role involves setting up the equipment and providing the necessary support with the GCSE and A Level 'Required Practical' activities. You would also be flexible, mindful of Health and Safety issues . A degree of computer literacy would be required.

The training you will receive:

Delivered by CSR Group - Scientific Training

Weekly classes delivered online.

A structured programme of on-the-job training, mock assessments, and professional discussions.

A final End Point Assessment including observation and portfolio-based discussion.

Entry Requirements for the Level 3:

Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade 5 or above)

Level 3 qualifications (A Levels, BTECs and TLevels within Science) desirable

Applicants must not already hold a degree

What to expect at the end of your apprenticeship

Following completion of the apprenticeship, there may be an opportunity to secure a permanent position, subject to available vacancies.

Deadline for applications: 9am - Tuesday 22nd September 2026.

We reserve the right to shortlist, interview and appoint candidates prior to this date depending on applications received.

NKS is committed to the continuing Professional Development and Equal Opportunities for all our staff. We support our employees in career development and respect initiative and ambition. As such we are committed to using Performance Management; formal and informal training; coaching and mentoring; and peer support to ensure the progression of our staff. In return we expect commitment and a desire to improve and excel from our colleagues. It is important for our students to understand and experience the strength and depth of a diverse community, and we aim to create a culture that encourages and values diversity, and that appoints, rewards, and promotes staff based on merit. To show our commitment to this, the schoolhas achievedthe Race Charter Markand has also secured UKFeministarecognition, achievingSilveraccreditation.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted.