Halesowen College apprentice presents at international pharmaceutical conference

Charlotte Cartwright, who studies at Halesowen College, carried out research in medicines looking at what helps tablets work faster in patients.

She has been chosen by Pearson, who provide BTEC qualifications, as a case study.

The Compaction Simulation Forum conference was in Bordeaux.

Charlotte, from Dudley, is a Level 5 Laboratory Scientist Apprentice who works for Merlin Powder Charactisation four days a week and spends one day a week at college.

The 23-year-old decided not to study at University and completed an HND in Applied Chemistry at College.

Elaine Stone, who supervises Charlotte at Merlin Powder Characterisation, said: “It has been a rewarding experience watching Charlotte tackle new tasks and grow in confidence. She has surprised us by the speed and breadth of her progress and is a valuable member of the team.

“I think if we had told Charlotte on day one that she would be presenting her data at an international pharmaceutical conference she would not have believed us.”

Gemma Eves, laboratory sciences apprenticeship assessor for Halesowen College, said: “Over the past four years Charlotte has gained the skills and knowledge required to be successful within the industry and I have observed her grow in confidence and become an invaluable member of the team. Charlotte has a wonderful, exciting career to look forward to.”

Charlotte added: “Halesowen College have been incredibly supportive throughout the whole process.

"As well as offering an HND programme with a variety of subjects I’ve gained many transferable skills throughout which has helped me personally and professionally progress further in my career.”