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Use the tabs below to find out more about each role in pharmacy
Level 2
Buttercups Training offers a range of level 2 programmes both to meet the mandatory training requirements laid down by the regulator, and, to develop skills and expertise to ensure the effective delivery of pharmacy services.
The diagram below shows the options for GPhC accredited courses that can be completed as an alternative to the level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant (PSA) apprenticeship standard. Click on the courses below for further information.
Click here to view our full range of pharmacy support staff courses
Alternatively, the learner may wish to step up to the level 3 programme on the next tab.
Level 3
The pharmacy technician's role will build on that of a level 2 qualified assistant and may include giving advice to the patient on medicines' use, the management of symptoms, and side effects. They may be also involved with assisting the pharmacist in the preparation for advanced services, or mentoring and training support staff.
The qualifications required to register as a pharmacy technician are either:
- the NVQ3 plus a programme delivering the underpinning knowledge, which can be delivered as part of an advanced apprenticeship framework for pharmacy
- the new combined Pharmacy Technician Training Programme launched in 2019, which can also be delivered as part of a level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
In addition to the 720 hours of study this represents, the work experience required to register as a pharmacy technician is a minimum of 14 hours per week over two years working under the supervision / guidance of a pharmacy registrant.
Click here for more information about our Pharmacy Technician courses.
Level 4
The ACPT is responsible for the final check of the assembled medicine which has been subject to a clinical screen by the Pharmacist. The course consists of study and a work based activity following a nationally agreed framework.
Click here for more information about our Accuracy Checking Pharmacy Technician's course.
The Foundation Practice Programme is aimed at pharmacy technicians who wish to update their knowledge and skills in line with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) latest professional and training standards. The programme is mapped to the GPhC’s standards for the initial education and training of pharmacy technicians.
The Level 4 Enhanced Practice Programme is an opportunity for pharmacy technicians to develop knowledge and skills for enhanced practice roles