Foundation Practice Programme for Registered Pharmacy Technicians

We are delighted to announce the release of our Foundation Practice Programme (FPP). The FPP is designed for pharmacy technicians who wish to update their knowledge and skills in line with the latest GPhC initial education and training (IET) standards, emphasising the importance of person-centred care, team working, communication and professionalism. The FPP is for pharmacy technicians working in all sectors of practice, particularly those who completed training using earlier standards requiring an NVQ programme.

The FPP covers five core modules (150 learning hours total):

• Person-centred Care
• Evidence-based Medicine
• Medicines Optimisation
• Leadership and Management Part 1
• Leadership and Management Part 2

An optional module is available following completion of five core modules (75 learning hours):

• Introduction to Primary Care Practice

The optional module is designed for those who are new to a primary care role, such as working in a GP practice, primary care organisation or care home.

Delivery

The FPP and the Introduction to Primary Care Practice module are delivered by online blended learning, incorporating interactive e-learning activities, videos, case studies and work-based assignments. These are hosted on our e-learning platform, the b-Hive.

FAQs

Q. What does the FPP cost

A. The FPP costs £200 (+VAT). The FPP plus optional module, Introduction to Primary Care Practice, costs £300 (+VAT).

Q. How long does the FPP take to complete?

A. We anticipate that the FPP will take between five and twelve months to complete, allowing a minimum of one month to complete each core module and the associated assignment. In total, the core modules and associated assignments will take around 150 hours to complete. The optional module, Introduction to Primary Care Practice, will take three months to complete. In total, the teaching content, activities and the work-based assignments will take around 75 hours to complete.

Q. Do the modules have to be completed in a particular order?

A. Yes, it is important to start with module one and work through subsequent modules in order. The learning from later modules builds on earlier learning.

Q. Will all modules be released at the same time?

A. After enrolment, the learner will be given access to the first module only. Subsequent modules will be released at monthly intervals on completion of the formative assessments (interactive online activities).

Q. Is the FPP applicable to pharmacy technicians working in all sectors?

A. Yes, the FPP is applicable to pharmacy technicians working in all sectors, however, it is most relevant to technicians who are in a patient-facing role. The optional module, Introduction to Primary Care Practice, is aimed at pharmacy technicians who are new to a primary care role, such as working in a GP practice, primary care organisation (e.g. a Primary Care Network) or care home.

Enrolments are now being taken for the new Foundation Practice Programme for qualified pharmacy technicians. Update your knowledge and skills in person-centred care, team working, communication and professionalism. Develop skills for the provision of excellent pharmacy services.