How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
There are no set entry requirements to become a trainee phlebotomist, although it may help to have a college qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
Courses in health and social care often include work placements. This would give you practical experience, which could help you to get a job afterwards.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Healthcare Science Assistant Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, specialising in phlebotomy.
You could also do a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, then apply for a trainee role in phlebotomy.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a healthcare assistant and work your way up through training and promotion.
Volunteering
You might have an advantage when looking for jobs if you have volunteering experience in a healthcare setting.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to work as a phlebotomist. There are no set entry requirements, though it may be helpful if you have at least 2 GCSEs and a first aid certificate.
Some employers may prefer you to have a qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the National Association of Phlebotomists and Institute of Biomedical Science for networking and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a phlebotomist from Health Careers.