INTRODUCTION
NASDU whilst a recognised certification body for security disciplines NASDU has developed a number of introductory programmes for non-security disciplines.
These Learning Programmes delivered by NASDU Approved Trainers and accredited by the Awarding Body HABC, aim to provide the learner with the basic skills, knowledge and understanding of Detection Dog Handling to allow them to proceed into potential employment within areas such as: the Voluntary Sector, Public Sector or Commercial Orgnisations.
It should be noted that these Introductory Learning Progammes are an assessment of the learners (handlers) ability and not that of the dog.
This vocation programme whilst not a security discipline has been developed by NASDU (as an HABC Approved Centre) with the support of Surrey Fire & Rescue Service in conjunction with operation Fire Investigation Officers from Surrey Fire & Rescue Service, to complement both the National Occupation Standards (NOS’S) for Detection Dog Handler and the training requirements contained within BS 8517 Part 2, (in that) it is an assessment of the learners (handlers) ability to read the indications given by a dog and to meet the required performance criteria.
FOR WHOM SUITABLE
This programme meets the basic requirements of those learners who are either serving Fire Officers employed by a Local Authority Fire Service and wish to become Fire Investigation Search Dog Handlers or Handlers in the private sector who may wish to work with relevant Fire Investigation Agencies.
It is recommended that learners have knowledge and understanding in forensics and fire investigation.
The minimum age for vocational training as a Detection Dog Handler is 18 years old.
AWARDING BODY
HABC – The NASDU Level 3 Accredited Programme – Introduction to Working as a Detection Dog Hander is accredited by Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance (HABC) who are a recognised and regulated awarding organisation with OFQUAL, SQA and recognised by the SIA.
LEVEL
NASDU Level 3 (Accredited – Introduction Programme)
COURSE DURATION
Training would be delivered over a number of weeks and would be of sufficient duration to ensure a basic understanding, having a minimum of 150 guided learning hours (GLH’s). Recognition of formal prior learning (RPL) is permissible and may be awarded by the Instructor/Trainer.
GLH’s are recorded hours of direct training, structured learning and assessment given to an individual learner by their Instructor/Trainer and not the duration of a course.
GLH’s are recorded hours of direct training, structured learning and assessment given to an individual learner by their Instructor/Trainer and not the duration of a course.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
The programme is flexible with a mixture of theory and practical tuition and is made up of 5 Units (4 Core Units plus 1 Pathway Unit) all of which are compulsory (see content).
PRIOR LEARNING REQUIREMENTS
All learners should have a minimum standard of Level 1 literacy in the English language, i.e., speaking, listening, reading and writing skills which should be confirmed by the Instructor/Trainer prior to commencement of training.
The learner should be competent in the handling of a dog; it is strongly recommended that learners and their dogs are assessed prior to commencement of training by a NASDU Approved Instructor/Trainer for which any additional GLH’s or RPL may be identified.
The dog should be of an acceptable breed (as per BS 8517) and above 12 months old, possess the suitable drives required for its role and have had basic obedience training.
Dogs previously schooled in other disciplines must be identified to the Instructor/Trainer prior to commencement of training. Dogs schooled in EDD, or Pyrotechnic Detection cannot be used.
RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING
Learners who within the last 5 years have been formally certificated and have proven Detection Dog Handling experience either in the private security sector or in the public sector as a Police or Prison Officer or as a Member of HM Armed Forces, may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
ASSESSMENT
Course assessment shall be carried out by an Approved NASDU Instructor/Trainer, the mode of assessment shall be by practical on-going assessment by question and answer sessions and by written examination(s).
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) shall be carried out by NASDU, with external accreditation of the learning provision and External Quality Support (EQS) carried out by HABC.
Quality Management System (BS EN ISO 9001) assessed by BAB.
PROGRESSION
The successful learner can proceed onto an IFE or similar Fire Investigation course to become a Fire Investigation Officer.
CERTIFICATION
CONTENT
Unit 1 Roles and Responsibilities of a Detection Dog Handler (10 Hours)
Unit 2 Control a Detection Dog (10 Hours
Unit 3 Operational Control of a Fire Investigation Search Dog (110 Hours Minimum)
Unit 4 Health, Well-being & Safety of a Detection Dog (10 Hours)
Unit 5 Management of a Detection Dog (10 Hours)
TEAM CERTIFICATION
Certification for Handler and Dog as a Team should be in accordance with future employers’ requirements (i.e., public sector, commercial Companies).
Note: NASDU Approved Instructors may be able to assist with future Team Assessments.
CONTINUATON TRAINING
It should be noted that the recommendation for Detection Dog CT training in BS 8517 Part 2 is monthly which is assessed quarterly and certificated annually.
APPROVED TRAINERS’ LOCATION & DATES
A full list of Approved Instructors/Trainers authorized to deliver this specific introduction programme are listed on the NASDU website (www.nasdu.co.uk). Trainers are listed by geographical region and learners should contact their closest/most convenient Trainer direct who can give further details of location and dates.
COURSE FEES
As all training is delivered flexible and throughout most of the UK by a network of NASDU Approved Trainers course fees are negotiated between the learner and Trainer direct, the only fee coming to NASDU would be the learner’s registration and certification fee (currently £65.00).
FUTHER INFORMATION
Further information can be obtained by contacting NASDU Administration Office in the first instance.
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
(Certification & Membership Enquiries)
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01483 224 320 (Option 1)
HEAD OFFICE
(Centre Approval Enquiries)
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01483 224 320 (Option 2)
Tel 01483 224 320 (Option 2)
Email [email protected]