Level 2 Apprenticeship NI in Pharmacy Services

To be employed in a suitable role in the Pharmacy sector.

5 GCSEs (Grades D/3-G/1) including at least Grade D/3 in English and Maths (or an equivalency, such as Level 1 Essential skills). 

Learners undertaking this qualification will need access to a pharmacy, with a minimum placement of at least 21 hours per week, and to a registered pharmacy professional to act as a supervisor or mentor.

 Pearson BTEC Level Certificate in the Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Support Staff

The learner will need to complete a total of 5 units. Four of these units are mandatory.

Mandatory Units (all 4 to be completed):

1. Person-centred Care and Communication
2. Principles of Health and Safety for Pharmacy Support Staff
3. Effective Teamwork within Pharmacy Services
4. Personal Development for Pharmacy Support Staff

Optional Units (one to be completed) will be chosen from the following options, depending on workplace:

1. Dispensing and Supply of Prescribed Medicines and Medicinal Products
2. Managing Pharmaceutical Stock
3. Principles of Safe Preparation and Manufacturing of Medicines and Pharmaceutical Products
4. Selling Over the Counter Medicines and Medicinal Products

The knowledge, understanding and practical skills that are needed to prepare for employment, in the role of a dispensing assistant. The qualification gives learners the opportunity to:

• develop the fundamental technical skills and underpinning knowledge and understanding to perform their particular role safely and effectively.

• develop appropriate attitudes and behaviours that will support personal success in their job role and the long-term success of their organisation.

• develop a range of interpersonal and intrapersonal skills, to support progression to, and success in, further study and career advancement.

• achieve a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification, recognised by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

The flexible delivery and assessment approaches, for example virtual learning environments (VLEs), video, printable online resources, virtual visits, webcams for distance training, e-portfolios.

The balance of on-the-job and off-the-job training.

The range of teaching and learning methods used to deliver the training effectively while still meeting varying learner needs. 

In the longer term, learners can progress to a role of trainee Pharmacy Technician, within the sector.

Please note: the entry requirements for L3 Pharmacy Services include 4 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English, Maths and Science.