Apprenticeship Pharmacy Technician

Job overview

Apprentice Pharmacy Technician

Department: Pharmacy

Band 4 (Year 1 - 70% Band 4, Year 2 - 75% Band 4)

Hours: 37.5 per week (inclusive of 6 hours per week ‘off the job’ training time. All MKUH roles will be considered for flexible working

The Pharmacy Team are looking for a Pharmacy technician apprentice to join the team. This is an excellent opportunity to undertake the Level 3 Pharmacy Technician Apprenticeship, where you will learn a range of new knowledge, skills and behaviours.  As an essential member of the Pharmacy Team, you will work under the direction of registered Pharmacists, to provide Pharmaceutical care for patients. The duties are varied. It is not simply counting tablets or picking a box off the shelf.

 We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated person who has a flexible approach to work, the ability to work alone and as part of a team. Basic keyboard/ computer skills, the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, use judgement skills, decision making, good communication skills and a professional attitude. This is an excellent career opportunity for the right candidate.

The Apprenticeship programme will be delivered by our external NHS approved training provider. You will take part in interactive workshops and be assigned a tutor to support you throughout the programme, as well as receiving support from the MKUH team.

 Interview Date: To be confirmed.

Main duties of the job

In line with Apprenticeship Funding rules, please only apply for this role if all of the below factors apply to you. If you are unsure of any of these, please email us on Apprenticeships@mkuh.nhs.uk, highlighting the role you are applying for and what your query is.

 You are 16 years old or over,

-          You have resided in the UK or EEA for at least the past 3 years,

-          You can produce evidence of your Maths, English and Science GCSE (or equivalent) qualifications, 

-          You will not be in full time education at the point of starting this role,

-          You have not previously undertaken a Pharmacy qualification at level 3 or above

 Please bring your Maths, English and Science certificates with you to interview, should you be invited. Please also ensure these are noted on your application.

 Apprenticeship structure

You will learn in a variety of ways, combining on the job and off the job activities. Overall, you will have 1 study day a week, whereby that time will allow you to focus on your Apprenticeship work set. During your non study days, you will continue to learn within the team and build your experience and know-how.

All learning will take place on-site and via online sessions so you can experience a blended approach that equips you with what you need to develop.

Working for our organisation

Apprenticeship roles at MKUH are Fixed Term for the duration of the training. For this role, the Term is 24 months. You will be paid 70% of band 4 in year 1 and 75% of band 4 in year 2. Upon completion, there will be no set role awaiting you, however you will be in a position to apply for posts available that match your new qualification.

Versus our provider’s guidance, if candidates do not pass year 1 then they will not be able to go onto year 2, therefore impacting contract of employment. If year is not passed, then your apprentice contract will reflect this. You must also meet the MKUH standards and behaviours throughout.

 If successful, you will start this role in September 2024.

 We reserve the right to close posts early if we receive a sufficient volume of applications.  Unfortunately, only short-listed applicants will be contacted.  Candidates with a disability that meet the minimum criteria will be guaranteed an interview. Disclosure and Barring Service Checks may be required for new employees.

 We are a Two Ticks employer and are committed to equal opportunities, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

 Milton Keynes is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Trust Responsibilities  

• To be part of the Pharmacy team and work to enable the objectives of the department and the Trust to be achieved.
• To communicate effectively and promptly with all members of the Pharmacy teams and where necessary, clinical multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of medicines management/optimisation and supply services to patients and colleagues across the local health system.
• To participate in high standards of practice as defined by the CQC, NHSLA and other relevant organisations for implementation across the Trust.
• To contribute to Trust compliance with the Medicines Management standards, Clinical Governance and Risk Management Policies.

Professional Responsibilities  

• To act in a manner consistent with the General Pharmaceutical Council standards for Pharmacy professionals and work within own limits of authority and knowledge to provide safe, effective and timely work and support for colleagues including communication of complex and sensitive information.
• To always work within the defined policies and Standard Operating Procedures and where appropriate suggesting and contributing to changes made with the agreement of Pharmacy Technicians or Pharmacists.

Miscellaneous  

• To participate in relevant departmental meetings and contribute to effective communication within the department.
• To be aware of and comply with all department and Divisional procedures.

Please refer to the job description for further details.