As part of the Science Futures project, employers like the Scottish Police Authority are helping shape new routes into science careers through Modern Apprenticeships, including forensic science apprenticeships in Tayside and North East Fife.
The Scottish Police Authority are responsible for providing impartial forensic service to Police Scotland, is one of these forward-thinking employers, creating hands-on learning opportunities that help young people build the skills, confidence and experience needed to succeed in forensic science.
SPA’s forensic services span a wide range of specialist disciplines, including forensic biology, chemistry, firearms, drug analysis, fingerprint comparison and scene examination.
Recognising the growing need to attract and develop new talent, the organisation set out to create a more accessible pathway into this critical area of scientific work. Instead of relying solely on the traditional university route, SPA launched a pilot Modern Apprenticeship programme designed to help young people begin their careers within the industry, gaining valuable experience while contributing directly to live forensic operations.
Building New Pathways Into Forensic Science Apprenticeships
The Modern Apprenticeship programme was developed collaboratively within SPA, led by Service Delivery Manager Pamela Strathorn. Opportunities were offered at key forensic laboratory sites, including Rushton Court in Dundee and the Scottish Crime Campus in Glasgow.
From the beginning, collaboration with Dundee & Angus College and the Science Futures project played a crucial role in shaping the programme. The college helped SPA align the apprenticeship to the needs of the workplace, advising on course eligibility, candidate suitability and the practical skills required in a professional forensic environment.
Pamela explains: “Working with Dundee & Angus College has been fantastic. They really helped us understand how to align the qualification with the practical skills we need in the lab and the support throughout has been excellent.”
Finding The Right Fit
SPA sought apprentices who were enthusiastic, professional and eager to learn, with a genuine interest in science and attention to detail. Each apprentice is supported by both a line manager and a mentor, who guide them through on-the-job learning while helping them manage their coursework.
The first Modern Apprentice to join the Dundee team was Ashleigh Davidson, who started her journey in August 2025 and has already made a strong impression.
“Ashleigh brings a very positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a forward way of thinking that we need in this industry,” says Pamela, “It’s really refreshing for the team, the energy and enthusiasm is fantastic. I’m sure she will do very well in her apprenticeship.”
Apprentices contribute directly to the lab’s day-to-day operations, preparing reagents, managing stock and supporting the progression of casework. Their involvement provides essential support to SPA’s forensic teams, while giving them invaluable first-hand experience in a real forensic environment.
Why Forensic Science Apprenticeships Matter
For SPA, Modern Apprenticeships are a key way to nurture future talent and create opportunities for a science career that may otherwise feel inaccessible. As demand for skilled workers continues to grow, initiatives like these are helping strengthen access to forensic science apprenticeships in Tayside and supporting the future of the sector.
Pamela commented: “We recognise the value in bringing apprentices in and giving them that first stepping stone into their scientific career. It’s about growing our talent, diversifying our workforce and reflecting the communities that we serve.”
Through its partnership with Dundee & Angus College, SPA has been able to tailor training that builds both technical and transferable skills, from teamwork and communication to problem-solving and attention to detail. This combination ensures apprentices like Ashleigh develop into confident, capable professionals ready to make a difference.
Future Plans
Encouraged by the initial success, SPA hopes to expand the programme in the future, giving more young people the chance to gain real-world experience in forensic science.
“Our partnership with Dundee & Angus College has been fantastic,” says Pamela. “They’ve been really supportive as we make our way through this apprenticeship journey and the hope is that this will become a rolling programme.”
A Modern Apprenticeship is a powerful way to open doors, build confidence and shape the next generation, giving young people the chance to learn, grow and contribute to vital scientific work from day one.