The BPSA has published a discussion paper, ‘Aspirations and Expectations of
Pharmacy Students – A View to the Future’ that examines the aspirations and expectations of pharmacy students. The paper explores themes such as pharmacist prescribing, the provision of seven-day clinical pharmacy services, and what aspects of practice students want to train and work in.

The BPSA ran a survey in all schools of pharmacy in the autumn of 2016, with 1,374 respondents having their say on a range of topics. The results give backing to several key BPSA policies including:
● More rounded pre-registration placements
● Closer working between the pharmacy profession and GP colleagues in primary care
● Incorporating pharmacy prescribing into the MPharm degree
● Exposure to clinical environments from the first year of study
● Prospective international students should be made aware of the current visa situation.

On the basis of these policies, survey results and member engagement, the BPSA
has identified several areas for its ongoing work, including:

1. Students, pre-registration trainees and newly qualified pharmacists must be included in decision-making when setting the [profession’s] course for the future
2. International students must be made aware of UK visa regulations relating to
pre-registration training prior to choosing to study in this country
3. Students recognise pharmacy as a healthcare degree and profession, but with a proud
basis in guiding scientific principles
4. Students expect exposure to clinical environments from the outset of the MPharm
programme
5. Hands-on opportunities must be provided to develop clinical, commercial, leadership,
research and general management competencies
6. Interprofessional learning opportunities must be developed which foster effective
multidisciplinary relationships at an early stage.