Helen, from Burnopfield, achieved a distinction on every module of the Pharmacy Services course and becomes only the third person in almost a decade at the North Tyneside–based college to accomplish such a feat.

 

The National Certificate in Pharmacy Services successfully completed by Helen covers subjects such as chemistry, biology, pharmacy production and how drugs are metabolised in the human body.

Helen undertook the programme to assist in her role as lead operator in the skilled production team at Prudhoe-based pharmaceutical company SCM Pharma. The high-tech contract manufacturer helps its clients progress their medicinal products and devices through clinical trials by providing specialist development and manufacturing services.

 

Shirley Dann, managing director at SCM Pharma, said: “We are all very proud of Helen’s fantastic achievement. She has demonstrated a huge amount of commitment and dedication in not only passing the course but in attaining such high marks.

 

“Our company places great emphasis on continuous training and development alongside internal career progression. Helen’s success and the support she received from numerous departments within the business is a great example of the positive culture we have and constantly encourage at SCM Pharma,” added Shirley.

 

SCM Pharma recently hit the headlines after picking-up a major contract with drug giant Sanofi-aventis. The company is a leading light in the region’s burgeoning science sector and prides itself on its revolutionary approach to clinical manufacturing by offering companies of all sizes the opportunity to use its specialist expertise to develop and trial drugs, ultimately seeing them through to market.

 

The course completed by Helen equips her with the knowledge and practical skills required for success in her pharmaceutical-based employment. Commenting on her award and qualification, Helen said:

 

“I am both relieved and thrilled with the outcome of what has been two years of intensive studying. The course has given me knowledge of how drugs interact with the human body relating to a wide variety of medical conditions.

 

“It has also given me an insight into areas such as manufacturing, regulations, microbiology, pharmacy law and ethics, all of which I expect to be of benefit to me in my role within the production team.

 

“Although the top student award is a great personal achievement, it would not have been possible without all the ongoing support I received from the microbiology, chemistry and quality teams at SCM Pharma,” added a delighted Helen.

 

Course Leader Angela McLean at TyneMet College said: “Given her role at SCM Pharma, Helen was able to bring a different manufacturing perspective to the course. She has worked extremely well over the duration of the course and has produced some outstanding work.

 

“Helen also displayed very good leadership qualities as well as being an excellent team player. Her achievement of 216 out of a possible 216 on the course is truly an outstanding achievement,” added Angela.