Pharmacy Apprenticeship & Sector Training

Pharmacy training is open to anyone who wants to develop their skills and knowledge in pharmacy or medicines management — from new entrants to experienced healthcare professionals.

Many learners are already employed in pharmacy settings, and entry requirements often include GCSEs in English, Maths and Science. Apprenticeships are available at different levels, including Level 2 and Level 3.

Learners gain practical, workplace-ready expertise in areas such as dispensing, customer care, and supporting patients under the supervision of a pharmacist or pharmacy technician.

Whether learners are seeking to start a pharmacy career or enhance their current role, tend®’s flexible training options help them build confidence and advance professionally. Average UK pay after apprenticeship completion is competitive in the sector.

Career Builders are longer-term programmes such as apprenticeships and diplomas that lead to formal qualifications and significant career progression. They focus on building comprehensive skills over time through structured learning and practical application. Skill Builders are shorter, topic-focused courses that target specific areas like customer service, accuracy checking, or stock management. Many can be completed within a single day, making them ideal for quick professional development or refresher training.

Funding availability depends on the course type. Apprenticeships can often be fully or partially funded through the Government’s Apprenticeship Levy, allowing employers to support staff development at little or no cost.

Government funding typically applies up to a maximum of £5,000 for the Level 2, or £8,000 for the Level 3 apprenticeship.

Diplomas and Skill Builder courses are paid options, designed to be flexible and affordable for individuals and organisations. tend® provides clear guidance on all funding routes and payment options, ensuring training remains accessible to all learners.

The duration of Pharmacy training varies by course. Apprenticeships and diplomas typically take between 12 and 24 months to complete, offering structured learning and practical experience in real-world settings. Apprentices usually combine daily work with around 20% off-the-job training.

Skill Builder courses are shorter and can usually be completed within a day. tend®’s flexible delivery model allows learners to fit training around work schedules, making it easy to develop skills without disruption.

Learners will develop the skills needed for pharmacy roles, including medicine handling, customer communication, stock control, and record-keeping.

Learners are then assessed through work-based evidence, assignments and exams. Courses also cover professionalism, teamwork, and patient safety to help learners perform effectively in busy pharmacy environments and support better patient health. Hospital pharmacy roles also involve working alongside a multidisciplinary clinical team.

Whether learners choose a one-day Skill Builder or a longer Career Builder course, they will leave with the confidence and competence needed to deliver excellent pharmacy support and service.

Learners receive ongoing support throughout their training journey. Those enrolled on longer courses such as apprenticeships or diplomas are paired with a dedicated tend® coach for regular guidance, progress tracking, and motivation. Those doing an apprenticeship are also earning a wage while gaining hands on experience in the workplace.

Skill Builder learners benefit from expert-led teaching, interactive materials, and practical advice. Every tend® course is designed to be supportive, engaging, and results-driven, helping learners achieve success and advance within the pharmacy sector.

Not all pharmacy apprenticeships lead to General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration.

For example, the Level 3 Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship is designed to meet the education and training standards required for Pharmacy Technician registration. On successful completion, learners can apply to register with the GPhC, subject to meeting the Council’s registration requirements.

Our Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant Apprenticeship develops the knowledge and skills needed to support pharmacy teams and deliver excellent patient care, but it does not provide eligibility for GPhC registration.