The following requirements aim to ensure that Instructors and Trainers delivering training programmes against NASDU and Awarding Body specifications that lead to formal certification have the skills knowledge and understanding required to ensure the provision of a professional level of training delivery to learners (handlers) and their dogs
These requirements are achievable for the novice Trainer through to the experienced and are suitable for members of the private security industry, the Police, HM Armed Forces or Prison Services etc (NB: a novice would be an applicant who does not hold a recognised service dog training qualification in the discipline they wish to provide training in, but can evidence competence).
These requirements are also suitable for NASDU Trainee and Affiliate Trainers wishing to progress to full approved status.
Teaching Qualification
Applicants must have successfully achieved a formal teaching qualification i.e. Level 3 Award in Education & Training (RQF) or an equivalent Service Presentation Skills qualification (i.e. Military DIT, Police BTEC).
Instructor/Trainer Qualification
Applicants must either have successfully achieved a recognised service dog qualification as an Instructor in the discipline they wish to deliver training in or for novice applicants provide written evidence of training delivered within the last 2 years together with a commercial letter of reference.
Handler Qualification
Applicants must have successfully achieved a nationally recognised handler qualification (at either Level 2, 3 or 4) in the discipline they wish to deliver training in or an equivalent service dog handler qualification.
First Aid Qualification
Applicants must hold a current First Aid qualification.
SIA Licence
Applicants must either hold an SIA licence or provide a current DBS (Basic Disclosure Check) unless employed by a government agency within the last 12 months.
Target Scent Licence(s)
Applicants applying for Detection Dog Training Approval must hold the appropriate Home Office (Drugs)/Police (Explosive) Licence.
CPD
Applicants must demonstrate that they are keeping their own knowledge and skills current.
References
The applicant must provide at least two (2) written commercial references confirming training experience/operational deployment, in the discipline they are seeking approval.
Step 1: Recognitional of Prior Learning
Applicants should submit an Application Form to NASDU Head Office, together with a comprehensive CV detailing in full their sector competence, their experience in both handling and delivery of training as well as any other relevant information which may assist their application.
The Application and CV are then reviewed by a Member of NASDU’s Assessment Board who will either issue an Action Plan if there is insufficient evidence or issue an invitation to attend an Assessment Day with at least two Members of NASDU’s Assessment Board for which at least one will be an Approved Instructor/Trainer in the core discipline being assessed, being independent of the applicants initial training.
At the time of invitation NASDU Head Office will issue examination papers relevant to the discipline for approval, the results of these examinations will be reviewed during the applicant’s assessment (see Step 3).
Step 2: Practical Assessment/Observation
Following review of an applicant’s application and CV, applicants are then invited to attend one of NASDU’s Assessment Boards training venues, for practical assessment, where all training resources including handlers and dogs will be made available to the applicant.
The applicant will then be required to deliver a minimum of two (2) practical training sessions chosen by the Assessors demonstrating both their practical and theoretical training skills.
For applicants seeking approval to deliver EDD training then the practical assessment shall include the Odour ID Test and associated procedures and protocols.
Step 3: Professional Discussion
Following achievement of the practical assessment’s applicants would be given the opportunity to have a professional discussion with the two Assessors, where they are able to present their portfolio of evidence. During the discussion which will be focused on the specific discipline the applicant is seeking approval for the following will be addressed.
Step 4: Physical Resources
The final step in the assessment process would be the approval of the facilities available to the applicant for the delivery of training programmes. This would be achieved by either a site visit (to be arranged a later date) or by photographic evidence (which should be included in the applicant’s portfolio at time of assessment).
Approved Trainer status shall be for a period of 2 years, at which time re-approval shall be sought, Approved Trainers are also reviewed on an annual basis.
NASDU shall certificate as “Approved Instructor/Trainer” and then list the specific disciplines of Approval.
Initial Application Fee (non-refundable) £ 35.00
Assessment Fee (including provision of all resources) £400.00
Verification Fee (including certification fee and website listing) £165.00
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£600.00
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Bi-annual Trainer Membership Fee @ £25.00 Per Annum (If not already a Member)
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£ 50.00
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NB: Payment is due in full prior to or at time of initial assessment
NASDU as Membership Association reserves the right to decline an application without formal explanation.
Approval is for UK based Trainers only (Overseas Trainers should see “Affiliate Trainer (Overseas) Fact Sheet.
Further information can be obtained from NASDU Head Office.
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01483 224320
Tel 01483 224 320 (Option 2)
Email [email protected]