RPS and GPhC set out actions to close differential attainment gaps
Published: 5 February 2026
This news story was published when the organisation was the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) have reinforced their shared commitment to tackling differential attainment and degree-awarding gaps across pharmacy education and training. Our joint focus reflects a growing recognition that inequitable outcomes undermine both professional fairness and the quality of patient care.
The joint webinar, Closing the gaps in differential attainment and degree-awarding, took place as part of Inclusive Pharmacy Practice (IPP) Week. It brought together pharmacy students, trainees, educators, employers and system leaders to explore evidence, lived experience and practical system-wide and local actions that drive meaningful change.
Speakers highlighted persistent disparities in outcomes for black pharmacy students and foundation trainees, and the impact these gaps have on confidence, career progression and representation across the profession. The discussion emphasised that differential attainment is not a reflection of individual capability, but a symptom of systemic inequalities. This issue cannot be addressed through individualised solutions alone and requires coordinated action across the system.
The session highlighted the importance of better use of data to understand where gaps occur, alongside action to improve inclusivity in assessment design, diverse representation in learning environments and workplace training. Participants also agreed on the value of role models, expanded mentoring and sponsorship, and the need for closer collaboration across the pharmacy education and training system to deliver sustained improvement.
Professor Claire Anderson, RPS President, said:
“Addressing differential attainment is critical to fairness, patient confidence and the long‑term strength of the pharmacy profession. We must listen to lived experience, act on the evidence and work collectively to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.”
Watch the webinar: Closing the gaps in differential attainment and degree awarding.
Read the RPS report: Chasing equality in pharmacy training.
Take a look at other RPS resources on differential attainment.
Read more RCPharm news stories.
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