Community pharmacist : Training

Community pharmacists can choose to undertake further postgraduate training, such as a clinical diploma, to develop their knowledge and skills. There are a range of continuing education and postgraduate courses available in various aspects of community practice.

Many employers provide well-structured, intensive training programmes of varying length. All aim to provide new entrants with a broad overview of the company and offer the chance to gain experience in various retailing areas. As well as pharmacy-related training, you will receive training in:

• communication skills;
• teamwork;
• problem-solving;
• decision-making;
• negotiation and influencing.

Pharmacy is a profession which is constantly changing and evolving and further training forms part of a pharmacist's continuing professional development (CPD). CPD is a mandatory requirement of General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)  registration.

It is necessary for pharmacists to keep abreast of developments in drug research including the new drugs that are developed and come on the market and the new ways of treating conditions with drugs and the government policy on drug treatment. This will involve reading professional journals and publications and attending courses and training sessions throughout your career.