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Clinical excellence in prescribing practice - the fundamentals programme

Build the confidence to prescribe safely and successfully.

Whether you've recently qualified as an IP or are looking to put your prescribing qualification into practice, the NPA Fundamentals Course is designed to help you take the next step with confidence.

This practical online programme bridges the gap between qualification and real-world practice, giving you the knowledge, tools and support to confidently deliver prescribing services in community pharmacy and distance selling pharmacies (DSPs).

Why choose this programme?

The transition from becoming an IP to delivering prescribing services can feel overwhelming.

Our programme has been designed specifically for community pharmacy, providing practical guidance that helps you understand how to prescribe safely, and successfully introduce and develop prescribing services within your pharmacy.

By the end of the programme, you'll have greater confidence in your clinical decision-making, a stronger understanding of governance requirements, and the practical resources needed to deliver safe, high-quality prescribing services.

What you'll gain

By completing this programme, you will:

Build the confidence to put your prescribing qualification into practice.

Develop the knowledge and skills to deliver safe, effective prescribing services.

Understand the governance and regulatory requirements for prescribing in community pharmacy.

Learn practical consultation techniques and risk assessment approaches.

Access ready-to-use templates, guidance and supporting resources.

Join a growing community of pharmacist prescribers to share knowledge and experiences.

Receive an NPA e-certificate on successful completion.

This programme is ideal for

  • Newly qualified Pharmacist Independent Prescribers (PIPs) looking to build confidence in practice.

  • Existing Independent Prescribers wanting to refresh or expand their knowledge.

  • Pharmacists preparing to introduce prescribing services within their pharmacy.

  • Superintendent Pharmacists (SIPs) responsible for supporting and overseeing prescribing services within their organisation.

Programme at a glance

Format

Self-paced online learning

Duration

Approximately 3–6 months

Enrolment

Enrol anytime

Assessment

Six module assessments

Qualification

NPA e-Certificate upon successful completion

What you'll learn

The Clinical excellence in prescribing practice - the fundamentals programme is delivered through six practical modules, each combining learning materials, guidance, templates, activities and assessments.

Communities of Practice

Included as part of your enrolment, you'll gain exclusive access to our Communities of Practice which enables you to connect with fellow pharmacist prescribers throughout your learning journey and continue building valuable professional relationships beyond the course.

Whether you're preparing to deliver your first prescribing service or developing an existing one, this community provides a supportive environment where you can learn from the experiences of others, share practical insights and build confidence alongside your peers.

A safe and professional learning environment

Communities of Practice is designed to complement your formal learning by encouraging professional discussion, reflection and peer-to-peer support. It is professionally moderated to ensure conversations remain respectful, relevant and focused on learning.

This is not a clinical advice forum and should not be used to seek or provide patient-specific prescribing advice, clinical decision-making or urgent clinical support.

As a member of Communities of Practice, you'll be able to:

Connect with pharmacist prescribers across the UK.

Share experiences and practical learning from implementing prescribing services.

Reflect on your prescribing practice in a safe and professional environment.

Discuss the development of prescribing services within community pharmacy.

Build confidence through peer support and shared learning.

Continue your professional development beyond the formal training programme.

Prescribing Training Workshop

NPA Insurance Offer

NPA Insurance is pleased to announce that it will offer a 20% discount on the prescribing element of our NPA member indemnity premium, for all prescribers who successfully complete the new course.

This discount reflects the risk mitigation, enhanced clinical governance, and connected reduction in patient safety incidents the course will provide and demonstrates NPAI’s commitment to support and strengthen the prescribers of the future.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you're preparing to deliver your first prescribing service or looking to strengthen your existing knowledge, the NPA Independent Prescribing Programme – Fundamentals provides the practical skills, confidence and support to help you succeed.

Enrol today and start learning at your own pace.

Other Support Resources

The UK's most comprehensive Independent Prescribing Programme with continuous support throughout your journey

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Overview page

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