Rigby & Higginson Pharmacy- Pharmacy assistant Apprenticeship- BL5 3SX in Westhoughton

As an Apprentice Pharmacy Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting the daily operations of the pharmacy while completing your apprenticeship training under the supervision of registered pharmacy professionals.

Duties:

• Support the daily operations of the pharmacy while completing your apprenticeship training.
• Help ensure the safe, efficient, and effective supply of medicines and healthcare advice to customers.
• Gain practical experience in dispensing, stock management, and customer service while working towards your Pharmacy Services Assistant qualification.
• Actively participate in the Pharmacy Services Assistant Apprenticeship programme in coordination with the training provider and under the guidance of the pharmacy team.
• Complete all required coursework, assessments, and training modules in line with the apprenticeship framework.
• Assist in the selection, labelling, and dispensing of pharmaceutical products in accordance with prescriptions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and professional requirements at all times.
• Support the accurate and timely processing of NHS and private prescriptions.
• Participate in monthly NHS prescription submissions to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Contribute to the accuracy of purchasing, dispensing and endorsing to maximise reimbursement.

Customer Service and Advice:

• Deliver high standards of customer service, responding to general health and OTC (over-the-counter) enquiries.
• Use approved protocols and knowledge to recommend suitable products and advise on their correct use.
• Provide information on leading a healthy lifestyle and refer customers to the pharmacist where appropriate.

Stock and Inventory Management:

• Receive and check deliveries, sort and store stock in line with SOPs.
• Ensure appropriate storage and handling of all medicines and products.
• Assist in stock control activities, including maintaining adequate stock levels and expiry date management.
• Help prepare Monitored Dosage Systems (MDS) and support services to care homes and other care settings.
• Work with other healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of patient care, particularly across primary and secondary care.

Administrative and General Duties:

• Operate the till and card machines, maintaining accurate cash handling practices.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation and security in both the retail and dispensary areas.
• Keep up to date with product knowledge, industry news, and training resources.
• Perform any other reasonable duties as requested by line management to support the smooth running of the pharmacy.

Requirements:

• Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.

Skills:

• Customer care skills
• Initiative

Essential Skills and Attributes:

• Willingness to learn and a strong commitment to completing the apprenticeship programme.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work well in a team and follow instructions.
• A caring and empathetic attitude towards customers and patients.
• Basic numeracy, literacy, and IT skills.

This role is dependent on successful enrolment onto an approved apprenticeship programme and is subject to eligibility checks.

Training:

• An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.
• Actively participate in the Pharmacy Services Assistant Apprenticeship programme in coordination with the training provider and under the guidance of the pharmacy team.

After this apprenticeship:

• Upon successful completion of the Level 2 you can move onto the Level 3 Pharmacy technician.