North Coast TAFE’s pharmacy students are prized employees

Friday 9th May, 2008

COFFS Harbour pharmacist Liz Innes prides herself on offering the best service to her customers – which is why she has encouraged ten of her fifteen employees to complete TAFE qualifications in recent years.

“Most of my staff members here have done some sort of course at North Coast TAFE,” Mrs Innes said.

“I have been really lucky in the quality of employees we have had over the years and I have always encouraged them to extend themselves and their knowledge in an effort to offer our customers the best service, as well as expand their own opportunities in life.”

Mrs Innes said it was a requirement of pharmacy accreditation that pharmacy assistants be trained in the use of medication and how to offer advice but she also believed that “the better trained the staff, the better the customer service”.

“Our customers know that when they come in they not only get friendly and fun service, but good advice as well.

“Coffs Harbour TAFE has always been excellent in offering relevant and flexible courses which fit in with the demands of working in a busy pharmacy.”

Last week, Mrs Innes congratulated her latest TAFE graduate, Amanda Cameron, on attaining her Statement of Completion in her Dispensary Course, which forms part of the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy.

Community Pharmacy teacher Linda Johnston described Mrs Innes as an exceptionally supportive employer.

“She is really committed to making sure her staff are well trained and get the recognition they deserve for their knowledge and skills,” she said.

“Amanda started with North Coast TAFE two years ago with her Certificate II in Community Pharmacy and once she completed that she decided to study Certificate III thanks to the encouragement and support of her employer.

“There are also another three team members from this same pharmacy who are currently completing their studies with North Coast TAFE.”