Apprentice - Pre-Registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician

Role Overview

This apprenticeship offers a comprehensive two-year program combining hands-on training and academic study leading to the Level 3 Pharmacy Technician certification. Apprentices will also complete Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English if necessary. Under the guidance of registered Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacists, trainees will gain practical experience in all aspects of hospital pharmacy including the receiving, storage, distribution, and dispensing of medications.

Main Responsibilities

• Participate in a rotational program to develop competencies across various hospital pharmacy services.
• Engage in the safe, precise, and effective supply of medications, stock management, dispensing, and usage of pharmacy IT systems.
• Demonstrate professional conduct aligning with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) standards.
• Complete both practical training and formal qualifications to qualify for GPhC registration.
• Receive structured supervision and engage in continuous professional development activities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Essential: At least four GCSEs (or equivalent) graded A* to C, including Mathematics, English Language, and two relevant Science subjects.
• Desirable: Level 2 Pharmacy qualification such as NVQ2 Pharmacy Services, BTEC2 Pharmacy Certificate, or equivalent; Over the Counter (OTC) sales qualification.
• Experience in dispensing, e-learning, customer care, and stock handling is advantageous.

Skills and Knowledge

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Accurate numerical calculation abilities.
• Awareness of personal limitations and ability to work well under pressure.
• Focused and methodical work approach with high attention to detail.
• Capability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively.
• Confidence in patient interaction and maintaining confidentiality.
• Computer literacy and ability to follow instructions precisely.
• Preferred knowledge includes information governance, health and safety, and familiarity with GPhC standards.

Eligibility and Requirements

• Applicants must be residents of England and have lived in the EU for at least three years.
• Candidates must be at least 16 years of age and not enrolled in other government-funded educational programs.
• No higher-level qualifications (Level 4 or above) relevant to the Pharmacy framework unless materially different.
• Flexibility to work scheduled shifts including bank holidays, late nights, and weekends on a rotational basis.
• Ability to commute among Frimley Park, Wexham Park, and Heatherwood hospital sites.

Employment Context and Benefits

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is an inclusive employer with recognition for support of armed forces personnel and disability confidence. The organization supports flexible work arrangements and prioritizes a healthy work-life balance. Staff benefit from extensive professional, management, leadership, and clinical development opportunities. The trust is committed to sustainability and digital innovation, with significant investment in state-of-the-art hospitals and technology to improve care quality and reduce environmental impact.

Additional Information

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures, Good Distribution Practice, and Health and Safety regulations is mandatory.
• Successful apprentices become eligible for the General Pharmaceutical Council registration, enabling them to work as qualified Pharmacy Technicians.