Two Camden students have become the first participants in the Crick’s T Level programme to progress into scientific roles at the institute, returning this Autumn as degree apprentices after completing industry placements during their studies.
Sem and Maciej with Emma Nye, Head of Experimental Histopathology
For many young people, a career in science can feel distant. The Crick is working to change that by creating tangible routes into scientific careers. For Sem Nuru and Maciej Brzeziak, that journey began while they were studying for the Laboratory Science T Level at Maria Fidelis Sixth Form in Camden.
Sem Nuru
Building on years of engagement with schools across Camden, from classroom activities and laboratory visits to careers events, the Crick’s education team worked closely with leaders at Maria Fidelis to pilot a route into technical scientific careers with workplace experience that complements students’ academic studies.
During their placements within the Crick’s Fermentation and Experimental Histopathology science technology platforms, Sem and Maciej developed practical skills, learning alongside experienced technical specialists.
Their enthusiasm, curiosity and willingness to learn made a strong impression on colleagues across the institute, who began discussing how to support their development beyond the placements.
Both were subsequently offered roles with the teams that had hosted them, alongside places on degree apprenticeships with Manchester Metropolitan University. This enables them to earn, learn and build scientific careers without having to follow a traditional university pathway.
Sem said: “Before joining the Crick, I knew I enjoyed science but wasn't sure where it could take me. What stood out most was seeing how collaborative research is, and how the work contributes to developing new medicines that could help people in the future. I always had lots of questions for the team and they helped me understand the science behind the tasks I was completing. It's really helped me picture where I want to go next, and I'm excited to be returning as a degree apprentice.”
Maciej added: " As I was making my way through the placement, I felt more and more part of the team. Being trusted to contribute and learn alongside colleagues helped me grow in confidence and develop skills that you just can't get in the classroom. I can definitely see myself becoming a scientist, and completing the placement really helped reassure me of that. Being able to continue that training at the Crick while studying for a degree is an amazing opportunity.”
Maciej Brzeziak
Sem and Maciej’s success demonstrates the potential of new approaches to technical training and the value of widening access to careers in research. By working closely with local schools, the Crick is helping to ensure that talent, curiosity and potential, not background, determine who can contribute to the future of science.
As one of the sector's and the UK’s early champions of T Levels, the Crick’s education team is now also preparing to welcome a new cohort of students, and is also sharing lessons learned from the partnership with Maria Fidelis nationally through Department for Education, helping other organisations develop high-quality technical placements.
Clare Davy, Head of Education and Community Outreach at the Crick, said: "We’re thrilled to see Sem and Maciej continuing their journeys with us. Their progression from T Level placements to degree apprenticeships shows why it is so important to open up different routes into science. By working with local schools and teams across the Crick, we can help students across Camden develop their skills and discover the range of roles that support research. I hope other organisations see this as an opportunity to nurture and grow young technical talent.”
Carol Gamble, Head of Science at Maria Fidelis, has been working with the Crick from the earliest days of the education programme. She said: "We worked closely with the Crick to create placements that challenge students and give them a genuine insight into what it’s like to work in science. Sem and Maciej made the most of every opportunity, building relationships, developing their skills and setting a fantastic example for other students considering this route. We’re so proud that they’re now progressing into degree apprenticeships. It shows what’s possible when schools and employers work together to help students take meaningful steps towards their future careers.”
