The National Association of Animal Therapists (NAAT) has been providing practical apprenticeships in animal therapy for twelve years.

Students, who have generally had considerable veterinary experience prior to the programme, have gone on to set up their own animal therapy practices, each in close partnership with a qualified veterinarian.

This year the NAAT has launched a new academic teaching division, known as Animal Therapy Limited, which will complement practical training with structured distance learning modules.

Recognising that distance learning methods demand special expertise, Animal Therapy Ltd contacted the ODL QC. Yesterday, the provision was awarded New Provider Status, to help it develop a quality distance learning programme.

Applicants for the scheme must satisfy the Council that the provision so far is compatible with eventual accreditation, and that they are committed to achieving full accreditation in due course. New Provider Status is granted for an initial period of one year, although this can be extended for an extra 12 months if providers need more time to gather evidence of compliance with the Standards.

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Further details from:

Elspeth Harrison at ODL QC on
020 7612 7090 or elspeth@odlqc.org.uk.

Peter Lawrence at Animal Therapy Ltd on 01844 290 512 or FredandKt@aol.com