Ofsted 2026: Buttercups Training Achieves ‘Strong Standard’ Across the Board

Buttercups Training is proud to announce that we have been awarded a ‘Strong standard’ judgement across the full evaluation scale following inspection under Ofsted’s new Education Inspection Framework. As the first dedicated health and social care provider to receive ‘Strong standard’ across the board*, we continue to lead the way as the benchmark of quality for the pharmacy and healthcare training sector.

This latest inspection reflects the continued strength, consistency and impact of our provision, and reinforces our position as the trusted specialist training provider supporting pharmacy and healthcare professionals nationwide.

What ‘Strong Standard’ Means in Practice

The ‘Strong standard’ judgement reflects how effectively Buttercups translates intent into positive outcomes for learners. Our inspection outcome recognises:

• Skilful curriculum mapping which enables learners to develop above and beyond the required apprenticeship outcomes
• Learners who are ‘highly motivated and satisfied and enjoy their learning and their work’
• That our apprentices are 'part of a highly supportive and inclusive environment’
• Robust leadership and governance, with a clear focus on how to develop apprentices to ‘build the knowledge and confidence they need for their roles and future careers in the pharmacy sector’
• An open and positive culture of safeguarding

Apprentices and Their Employers

Our latest inspection shows that Buttercups has built on previous outcomes and continues to strengthen its quality and provision. This is possible because of the commitment of our learners and their employers to provide exceptional care to their patients. We are so proud of our learners, who have been praised throughout the inspection report for their dedication, responsibility and commitment to their profession. This is facilitated and supported by experienced professionals and employers who make the commitment to train the next generation of their workforce to the highest standard.

This inspection outcome under the new framework reflects not a single moment in time, but our ongoing commitment to quality, inclusion, innovation and learner success. As Ofsted’s expectations continue to evolve, Buttercups remains committed to staying ahead of the game—developing programmes that support workforce progression, professional confidence and improved patient outcomes.

Ofsted's full report

*Of published reports up to and including 22nd April 2026