Dis-Chem Pharmacies is taking applications for its Dispensary Support Learnership Programme 2026/2027, which prepares candidates to qualify as basic pharmacist assistants. You need Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics and Physical Science or Life Science, plus an average of at least 50%. Vacancies are open at several stores, and the last store closes on 4 November 2026.
Each store has its own deadline, and some are earlier than others. The Bloemfontein store closes on 29 October 2026, so check your store first.
About the Dispensary Support Learnership
Dis-Chem is one of the biggest pharmacy retailers in South Africa, with stores across the country and a growing network of clinics and dispensaries. Pharmacies are a steady source of jobs because people need medicine every day, in every town and city.
The Dispensary Support Learnership places you in a store to work in the dispensary while you complete the Learner Basic Pharmacist Assistant course. Successful candidates start in fixed-term Dispensary Support positions until they register with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) as learner basic pharmacist assistants.
Once you qualify as a basic pharmacist assistant, you may be considered for permanent employment. That makes this a rare route into a regulated health profession without first paying for a long university degree.
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What You Will Learn and Do
- Selling Schedule 1 medicines and scheduled substances
- Preparing and compounding non-sterile medicines under supervision
- Interpreting prescriptions, then picking, packing and labelling medication
- Checking expiry dates, managing stock and reporting low or out-of-stock items
- Assisting with scheme authorisations for chronic, HIV/AIDS and oncology medication
- Patient follow-up, call-centre support and basic health information
- Stipend and duration: Confirmed during the application process
Who Can Apply
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- Pure Mathematics (not Maths Literacy)
- Physical Science or Life Science
- A minimum average of 50%
- Able to read, write and speak English
- Able to communicate in a second language (desirable)
- Attention to detail, customer service, teamwork, numerical and computer skills
Required Documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Matric certificate or latest results showing Maths and Science
- Any other documents requested on the application page (confirmed during the application process)
How to Apply
- Choose the store and location that suits you and that you can travel to every day.
- Confirm that you meet the Mathematics and Science requirements.
- Open the application link for your store: Northridge Mall in Bloemfontein (closes 29 October 2026) or Optenhorst in Paarl North (closes 4 November 2026).
- Create a profile or sign in, then complete the form.
- Upload your CV and results.
- Submit before your store’s closing date.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Dis-Chem Dispensary Support Learnership is 4 November 2026 for Optenhorst, Paarl North, and 29 October 2026 for Northridge Mall, Bloemfontein. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
Healthcare is one of the few sectors that keeps hiring even when the economy is weak. South Africans live with high rates of chronic illness, and pharmacies are often the first place people go for advice. That creates steady demand for trained dispensary staff.
Many young people with Matric Maths and Science do not get a university place because of cost or limited spots. A learnership at a large retailer lets you earn while you qualify, and the SAPC registration gives you a recognised credential that is yours for life.
Applications are done per store, so take a few minutes to see which one fits your area. Remember that the Bloemfontein link closes first. If you miss it, the Paarl North application is still open until 4 November 2026. Some other stores on the original list have already closed.
ALSO SEE: Sasol Learner Administrator Learnership 2026: 12-Month Programme, Closes 6 November
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Pure Maths, or is Maths Literacy fine?
The advert asks for Pure Mathematics. Maths Literacy does not meet the requirement.
Which stores are still open?
Northridge Mall in Bloemfontein closes 29 October 2026 and Optenhorst in Paarl North closes 4 November 2026. Stores in Randburg and Limpopo have already closed.
How much is the stipend?
It was not stated in the advert. It is confirmed during the application process.
Can this lead to a permanent job?
Candidates may be considered for permanent employment after qualifying as basic pharmacist assistants. It is not guaranteed.
