Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Support Staff

1. To be currently working in a pharmacy environment in Northern Ireland as a pharmacy support staff or have secured a placement as a pharmacy support staff, by the start of the course. 
2. A minimum placement of at least 21 hours per week, and a registered pharmacy professional to act as a supervisor or mentor.  
3. 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). 
4. This course meets the requirements for the education and training of pharmacy support staff as set out by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

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

You are working as Pharmacy Support Staff in any of these different settings, including (but not exclusively); registered pharmacies, community services, justice (the Prison Service), GP practices, dispensing doctors’ practices, care homes and clinical commissioning groups, hospitals, mental health and in the pharmaceutical industry.

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).

This applied, practical approach which means that learners develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they need for career progression or further study.

Learners who achieve the qualification, can progress to the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians, if they meet the entry requirements.

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