Well has announced a long-term partnership with Keele University, to further enhance learning and professional development opportunities for those studying at its School of Pharmacy.

Earlier this month, Janice Perkins, Pharmacy Superintendent at Well, was awarded the title of Visiting Professor in Community Pharmacy by Professor Nigel Ratcliffe, Head of the School of Pharmacy.

This recognises the outstanding contribution Janice has made to the industry, particularly her work on patient safety and professional practice.

Commenting on her recent accolade, Janice said, ‘I’m honoured to be awarded this professorship and I’m looking forward to sharing my experience with both students and university staff as part of this role. Our formal partnership means that we’re able to dedicate additional time and resource to support the learning and development of students as they embark on their careers.

‘Nigel and the team share our commitment to excellence in the profession. Together we can prepare students for the future of the industry and the increased responsibility that is now placed on pharmacists and their teams, with the aim of collaborating with the NHS and helping to alleviate pressure to provide the very best care to patients.’

The company has committed to providing placements for undergraduate students and pre-registration graduates across its 780 pharmacies, and Well currently boasts a 100 per cent pre-registration pass rate.

Additionally, the first cohort of Well pharmacists recently started their journey on the new three-year diploma Expert Clinical Practice Programme, which aims to provide graduates with the clinical skills needed for the future direction of the industry.