SERC Helps Lauren Progress Pharmacy Career

Lauren Hewitt (33) from Comber came to SERC to further develop her skills and career as a pharmacist. Having already completed a MSci degree at the University of Aberdeen, Lauren returned to education at SERC to study a Level 3 NVQ in Pharmacy Skills.  

Lauren said “I had spoken to a colleague who had completed the course through SERC, and after speaking to my employer, I attended an open day at the College. The staff were lovely and very enthusiastic, so I was very excited to enrol!” 

She added “Before the pandemic, I really enjoyed coming into the college one day a week. It has been so good that I have been able to do this as an apprenticeship, meaning I have been able to continue to earn as I study. There are different sectors within pharmacy, and through my course I was able to meet people from different sectors and learn more about them.” 

Speaking about the next steps in her career Lauren said “I will continue working in the pharmacy sector. I have learnt from my course and the people on it that there are a lot of different directions you can potentially take within pharmacy.  I currently work in community pharmacy, and once I have been qualified as a technician for two years, I meet the criteria to do another course to become an Accredited Checking Pharmacy Technician, so that is my next step.” 

Lauren concluded “I would recommend SERC to anyone considering further or higher education. If my experience is anything to go by you will be well supported and helped to achieve your goals. The breadth and depth of knowledge you gain can be so useful and interesting, and I firmly believe it makes you better at your job. Overall, despite the challenges of the pandemic and having to move to remote learning, my experience has been very positive.  My tutors are very encouraging and helpful. I feel they genuinely want to see you do well.” 

To find out more about SERC Apprenticeships, make sure to check out our Apprenticeship Week events, running from the 26th to the 30th of April. Most of the events this year are run online, with SERC hosting a series of virtual activities which will highlight what is on offer for young people considering the apprenticeship route, for their parents, and for employers who want to grow and strengthen their business with an apprentice.   

Parents and Potential Apprentices can book to join our free information event here

Employers can book to join our free information event for employers here

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