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A learning programme designed to build the confidence and improve the competence of this year’s newly qualified pharmacists to prescribe after they have joined the pharmacy register is being piloted in England.

The Pharmacist Enhanced Practice Pathway, set up by NHS England (NHSE), the Centre for Pharmacy Postgraduate Education (CPPE) and the Royal College of Pharmacy (RCPharm), offers 1,200 places for pharmacists from all sectors who are annotated as independent prescribers (IP) at the point of registration.

CPPE said the programme offers modular online learning, workshops, supervised learning events, use of an e-portfolio and support in the workplace from an educational supervisor.

The 1,200 places are split between 300 for pharmacists who need CPPE‑provided educational supervision and 900 who need employer-provided supervision. Applications for the first cohort open on September 1 and January 4, 2027, for the second cohort. The programme is being funded by NHSE.

CPPE said educational supervisors will meet learners regularly, review their progress and provide regular, constructive feedback. 

“This module helps newly qualified pharmacists build confidence in prescribing, strengthen clinical decision making and manage increasing complexity in practice,” CPPE said.

It said learning includes self-assessment against the RCPharm Competency framework for all prescribers, case studies, reflective activities, an interactive workshop and a webinar with experienced prescribers.

"Learners are also encouraged to attend face-to-face ‘prescribing perspectives’ workshops, which provide opportunities to discuss complex prescribing scenarios and learn alongside peers,” CPPE added.