Evaluating the impact of the ‘Antibiotic Guardian Schools Ambassadors’ programme on UK trainee pharmacists’ learning and development

Background: The Antibiotic Guardian Schools Ambassadors programme engages healthcare professionals and scientists with young people to educate them about antibiotic use and resistance. In 2022, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and a national pharmacy chain involved trainee pharmacists across the UK in this effort. This study aims to evaluate the impact of participating in the Antibiotic Guardian Schools Ambassadors programme on UK trainee pharmacists’ learning and development. Methods: Trainee pharmacists in the program received a digital toolkit to help plan and deliver educational lessons on antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance to young people in their communities. Pre- and post-project questionnaires assessed changes in their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours regarding these topics, as well as the impact of their participation on their learning and development. Results: The study included 195 trainee pharmacists from the UK, with a 67% participation rate. Only 45 post-project responses were received (23% response rate). The responses indicated that trainee pharmacists felt knowledgeable about antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance, and they benefitted personally and professionally from the project. Conclusion: Trainee pharmacists took part in a national public health campaign, enhancing their knowledge, skills, and confidence while meeting General Pharmaceutical Council outcomes. Future improvements should focus on increasing post-project response rates and including pharmacy professionals from diverse organizations and sectors.