Training time for NPA NVQ3?

[Koul Kougar]

How much in-store training time do you think it is reasonable to ask for when doing the NPA's new NVQ3 course? The new one looks a lot more in-depth than old one, with some modules requiring an estimated 50hrs of study time in a 4week deadline.

[greenmonkey]

Hi Koul
I am just nearing the end of my NVQ3. Currently on Module 17 then registration. I haven't been granted any study time at work to do it as I was told it had to be done in my own time (something on the lines of because I chose to do it and its not compulsory) but I have managed to keep on track with it. Allbeit having to go into work on my day off and holidays, but its a small price to pay. It has been hard at times but if you can do each Module and Unit in the allocated time scale then you will be fine. Good luck with yours xxx

[johnep]

What reward do you think they will give you for all this hard work and dedication?
johnep

[Tony Schofield]

You come out with a qualification that entitles you to be regulated as a professional. There are many opportunities for technicians outside of community pharmacy so look upon the free time you give up as an investment in your self.

[craftycaz50]

I have been told I can have 2 hours per week. What sort of opportunities outside pharmacy do you mean Tony? If I can call you Tony as we havent been officially introduced :-)

[Koul Kougar]

Thanks for the replys

I can't do all of it at home. My manager is aware of this and has said that I can have 3-4 hours most weeks (depending on staff) , which I am happy with. I just wanted to check what the norm was!

It is definately worth the hard work.

[tinx25388]

I was promised 4 hours a week when I started.

I only had 4 hours a week on one week - the snow was heavy and I travel about 10 miles to work. I managed to get my manager to agree that instead of unpaid leave, if I spent the day doing my NVQ3 (and brought the work in the next day to prove it) I could get paid as normal.

I always found myself sorting bits and pieces out (that cant be done at home) during tea/lunch breaks, then using Facebook chat to run things passed my Pharmacist. Once I had finished a Unit, she took it home to look through. Not ideal, but 2 years on and with lots of thanks to her, I'm very nearly almost registered (they have my application!)

[Koul Kougar]

I always found myself sorting bits and pieces out (that cant be done at home) during tea/lunch breaks, then using Facebook chat to run things passed my Pharmacist. Once I had finished a Unit, she took it home to look through. Not ideal, but 2 years on and with lots of thanks to her, I'm very nearly almost registered (they have my application!)

Working full time and trying to fit studying into my already busy home life is not easy, but if I get support from my new pharmacist like you, it should be just fine You've reassured me, thank you.

[kayco]

I managed to agree on 2 hours per week but like tinx i never seem to have the time always other jobs to be done, I find it hard to take the time as a supervisor of the branch there is most definately something else that just needs doing.

so 3-4 hrs is fab! Good Luck with the NVQ3

[nicky]

agreed 3-4 hours is good i get 2 hours which i do have every week without fail thankfully , i think not having any time is mean because you need time to look for things such as SOPs, to do the exams and photocopying evidence, good luck x