Potential Earnings
£62,646.04
Key details
- Apprenticeship area
- Science
- Course type
-
Apprenticeship
A paid, work‑based training programme that combines employment with structured learning, leading to industry-recognised qualifications while gaining practical experience.
- Apprenticeship level
-
Level 2
Not sure what this course level means? Use our course level explainer to help guide you through the different levels.
- Location
- Workplace
- Mode of attendance
- Employer based
- Start date
-
You can start this apprenticeship at any time.
Apprenticeship introduction
The Pharmacy Services Assistant (PSA) apprenticeship is an exciting opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours needed to work in a pharmacy environment and play an important role in delivering safe, effective and person-centred care.
Working under the supervision of a Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technician, you will gain valuable hands-on experience while learning how to support the safe supply of medicines, promote healthy lifestyles and contribute to the health and wellbeing of patients.
Throughout your apprenticeship, you will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) required by the Pharmacy Services Assistant Apprenticeship Standard, combining practical workplace experience with learning and guidance from our experienced Learning and Skills Coaches.
Duration: 12 months of training, followed by 3 months for the End-Point Assessment (EPA).
What will you learn?
Throughout your apprenticeship, you will develop your knowledge and practical skills in key areas of pharmacy practice, including:
- Person-centred care: Supporting patients, respecting individual needs and promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Safe supply of medicines: Developing the knowledge and skills required to support the safe and effective dispensing and supply of medicines.
- Communication and teamwork: Working effectively with patients, colleagues and other healthcare professionals.
- Health and wellbeing: Promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting patients to make informed decisions about their health.
- Professional practice: Understanding your responsibilities, working within your scope of practice and maintaining patient safety.
Meet your Learning and Skills Coaches
Our experienced Learning and Skills Coaches are passionate about supporting the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
With extensive experience across different pharmacy settings, they bring real-world knowledge and practical expertise into your learning experience.
Throughout your apprenticeship, your Learning and Skills Coach will provide individual guidance, support and regular progress reviews to help you develop your confidence, achieve your learning goals and prepare for your End-Point Assessment.
Apprenticeship information
Pharmacy Services Assistant - Level 2 Standard
You will need 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 3/A* to D or equivalent including English Language and Maths. Some employers may require additional qualifications depending on the role
You will also need to be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week in a relevant job but we can assist you in finding a placement.
Adults who are aged 19+ with appropriate industry experience but without the necessary qualifications are welcome to apply.
All applicants will be required to undertake an assessment in English and maths prior to enrolling.
This apprenticeship is assessed through assignments, observation, question, and answer sessions.
The End Point Assessment consists of a knowledge test, simulated observation and question/answer session and professional discussion.
Completing your Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship is an excellent first step towards a rewarding career in pharmacy.
You'll gain valuable experience and transferable skills that can support your future professional development.
You may also have the opportunity to progress onto the Level 3 Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship, opening up further career opportunities within the pharmacy profession.
Careers related to this course
Select career:
Pharmacists
Average Earnings
£42,642.40
Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).
Employment opportunities
The number of job postings in this career for previous years starting from 2023, the current year and projections for future years until 2034.
Sources: The Labour Force Survey (LFS), Working Futures (projections) data, and Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES).
Pathways
Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing
People in these occupations diagnose, assess, and treat health problems, operate medical technology, and care for patients.
Natural Sciences
People in these occupations observe the natural order, formulate theories, run tests, and conduct experiments.
Mathematics and Social Sciences
People in these occupations study mathematical methods, apply mathematics to solve problems, and study and describe human society.
Skills
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.