Can I get any funding to complete iPET Network qualifications?
The government and different agencies can offer funding for individuals to complete qualifications that will improve their skills or employment opportunities. The schemes that these are offered under vary over time, however, iPET Network are committed to ensuring our qualifications are accessible to all which includes being registered for funding options. As such, a range of our qualifications are registered for funding with the EFSA and eligible for the Advanced Learner Loan and 16-19 funding.
However, most funding is reliant on the Centre meeting criteria, not the Awarding Organisation. To find out if the Centre you wish to train with is registered for funding, please contact them directly.
Is iPET Network the Same as City & Guilds or OCNWM?
In short – no, we’re not the same. iPET Network, City & Guilds, and Open College Network West Midlands (OCNWM) are all Ofqual-regulated Awarding Organisations, but iPET Network is different in its design, approach, and focus. While traditional awarding bodies cover many sectors, iPET Network specialises exclusively in Animal Care and Veterinary Science – it’s all we do. This means our qualifications are developed by people who work in the industry, for people who work in the industry. Where older awarding bodies rely on more rigid structures, iPET Network offers:
- Modern qualification design that reflects today’s welfare practices.
- Flexible, centre-led assessment built around real Learners and real animals.
- Inclusive course models that value skill, welfare, and accessibility over tick-box criteria.
- Current and continually updated content, ensuring Learners are industry-ready, not just exam-ready.
- Direct partnership with Centres, giving Centres freedom to deliver with quality and creativity.
So while the qualification levels may align, the learning experience, delivery, and outcomes with iPET Network are built for the modern animal care professional – practical, relevant, and designed to help people succeed.
Where can I find regulated qualifications?
To be sure any qualification is Ofqual regulated, you can find and check qualifications on the Ofqual register via their website https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/
How much are the qualifications?
Each Centre sets its own price for each qualification. This price takes into account many variables such as the type of qualification, the number of students on a course, the delivery materials used, the learning environment and the expertise of the Assessors. With so many factors, the prices can vary significantly so it is important you choose the Centre that aligns with your learning style and offers the approach that works best for you.
How do I enrol on a qualification?
Contact your chosen Centre directly to enrol on any qualification. They will ensure you complete the essential registration documents and start your learning journey. To find your nearest Centre or to view the full list of our Centres click on link below:
iPET Network: International Pet Education and Training Network | Find your nearest Centre
When are the start dates for a qualification?
Centres all set their own start dates for qualifications but many are available on a rolling programme. Contact your chosen Centre for more details. Every iPET Network Approved Centre operates as an independent business with its own structure, style, and learning environment. Some are dedicated grooming schools training small groups of Learners with multiple Assessors and Tutors. Others are one-to-one training studios, mobile educators running workshops in local venues, or large further-education colleges delivering a range of Ofqual-regulated animal care qualifications. Although the settings differ, the standards do not. Each Centre has passed a rigorous iPET Network auditing and approval process and commits to maintaining the integrity of our qualifications.
Choosing the Right iPET Network Centre
We want you to feel confident when choosing the right iPET Network Centre and qualification for your goals. Speaking directly with Centres is the best way to understand how your chosen qualification will be delivered and what to expect during your training. Here are some useful questions to ask before enrolling:
Questions to Ask Your Centre
- Who will be teaching me? Ask about your Tutor(s) and Assessor(s) or tutors. Will you be taught by one person or a team?
- What qualifications and experience do they have? Confirm that your Assessor holds a teaching qualification and has industry-relevant experience in animal care or dog grooming.
- How do they assess prior experience or entry requirements? Some Centres recognise previous learning or professional experience – find out what options are available to you.
- Do they offer other courses or progression routes? Ask whether the Centre delivers additional iPET Network qualifications that might help you advance your career further.
- Where are they based and how is training delivered? Check whether you’ll need to attend in person, study online, or follow a blended learning model.
- How are assessments completed? Clarify the assessment methods, guided learning hours (GLH), and any practical requirements involved in the qualification.
- What makes this Centre different? Each iPET Network Centre is unique – ask what sets them apart in their teaching style, facilities, or learner support.
- Can you read reviews or testimonials? Look for feedback from previous Learners to understand their experience and outcomes.
Can I do a qualification if I have a disability?
Disability shouldn’t be a barrier to your learning and iPET Network is committed to equality. However, we do recognise that for some qualifications a disability could prevent successful completion of a qualification assessment criteria and be unsafe practice. Therefore, we recommend you speak directly to your chosen Centre to see if any reasonable adjustments can be made and to ensure safety can be maintained throughout your training.
Funding and Finance Options
Funding Support for iPET Network Qualifications
Funding is available for a number of iPET Network qualifications, but it can only be accessed through Centres registered for government funding schemes or those that meet the required criteria.
If you want to check whether a specific qualification or Centre is eligible for funding, we recommend contacting your chosen iPET Network Centre directly. They’ll be able to confirm the options available to you.
Learners must also meet individual eligibility requirements for certain funding schemes. You can review the latest government information using the links below:
How do I pay for a qualification?
Qualifications and courses are to be paid directly with your chosen Centre. Your Centre will register you with iPET Network and complete the admin processes on your behalf.
Do Centres offer accommodation?
Some Centres offer accommodation, especially for practical training courses that require you to attend a specific location. Most locations will have nearby facilities and your Centre can advise of local places to stay which meet your requirements.
Is there theory and practical involved in the qualification?
Depending on which qualification you choose, there may be practical and theory based elements to your training. For example, our dog grooming qualifications are practical based and require practical assessment as part of the course but also contain a healthy balance of theory knowledge too.
How do I apply for the Fast-Track route to iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management?
In order to qualify for the fast-track route to any qualification, you will need to provide evidence of prior learning, often called RPL or Recognition of Prior Learning.
For the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management, RPL can include a level 2 Ofqual regulated qualification with another Awarding Organisation plus evidence of the time you have spent grooming since, for example, working in a grooming salon. RPL could also include a Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming with similar experience evidence. RPL may be possible without previous qualification and could include customer reviews, employer references, seminar attendance and more. Each application is judged on individual merit and a case is built to evidence the RPL.
Fast-Track Route and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
What Is RPL?
If you already have experience or previous training in dog grooming, you may be eligible for the fast-track route through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
RPL allows learners to use existing skills, knowledge, and experience as evidence towards achieving an iPET Network qualification.
Fast-Track Entry for the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management
To qualify for the fast-track route to the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management, you’ll need to provide supporting evidence of your prior learning and experience. This could include:
- A Level 2 Ofqual-regulated qualification in dog grooming (from any recognised awarding organisation).
- Proof of practical experience, such as working in a grooming salon or running your own grooming business.
- A Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming with supporting experience evidence.
- Portfolio evidence, including:
- Employer or client references
- Customer reviews
- Certificates from seminars, workshops, or CPD courses
- Photographic evidence of grooming work
- Employer or client references
Each RPL application is reviewed individually, and a case is built based on your experience and submitted evidence.
Why Apply for RPL?
The RPL process helps experienced groomers gain formal recognition for the skills they already have, saving time and reducing repetition of training. It ensures your learning is valued and your qualification journey reflects your true level of expertise.
To discuss your eligibility or start the RPL process, contact your iPET Network Approved Centre directly.
Education for People. For Pets. For the Future.
What online courses do you offer?
iPET Network offers a bespoke online E-Portfolio system that many of our Approved Training Centres use to deliver qualifications efficiently and interactively. A wide range of animal care and dog grooming courses are available online, with most including a practical training or assessment component to ensure real-world skills are achieved.
In many cases, practical assessments can be completed remotely, providing flexibility for Learners balancing study with work or home life. To confirm how a specific qualification is delivered, please contact your chosen iPET Network Centre directly to discuss your individual needs.
What is the Difference between an Award, Certificate and Diploma Qualification?
When choosing an iPET Network vocational qualification, it’s important to understand how qualifications are categorised in terms of both difficulty and size. These two factors help Learners and Employers identify the level of skill, knowledge, and commitment required to complete each course.
The first indicator is Difficulty, often referred to as the qualification level. This shows the depth of understanding and ability expected from the Learner. A Level 2 qualification represents a foundational stage, building essential knowledge and skills for entry-level roles. A Level 3 qualification, however, demands a higher degree of independence, decision-making, and professional competence. In simple terms, Level 3 is more advanced than Level 2.
The second indicator is Size, which is determined by the amount of Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and Total Qualification Time (TQT) required to complete the course. This refers to the overall time commitment needed, including both structured training and independent study. An Award is the smallest qualification, usually up to around 130 hours of guided learning. A Certificate sits in the middle range, requiring between 130 and 370 hours. A Diploma is the most extensive option, typically involving over 370 hours of training and assessment.
In practice, this means a Level 2 Diploma involves more hours of study than a Level 3 Award, yet it is a lower level in terms of the difficulty and skill required to achieve it. Understanding both the level and size of a qualification helps Learners choose the right course for their goals and ensures that employers and centres can clearly compare the standards of achievement across different pathways.
What Is the Difference Between Accredited, Non-Accredited, Regulated and Unregulated Qualifications?
In the UK, qualifications can be described as accredited, non-accredited, regulated, or unregulated, and understanding these terms is essential for anyone choosing a training pathway.
A regulated qualification is one that has been formally approved by a national regulatory body. There are four education regulators in the UK: Ofqual in England, Qualifications Wales, CCEA in Northern Ireland, and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). Each operates under statutory powers set out in UK law. Qualifications regulated by these bodies meet strict national standards for quality, assessment, and learner outcomes, meaning they are widely recognised and respected both across the UK and internationally.
All regulated qualifications must be developed in accordance with UK legislation and delivered to a consistently high standard. This process is overseen by an Awarding Organisation, which is responsible for designing, maintaining, and quality-assuring each qualification. iPET Network is one such regulated Awarding Organisation, specialising in the animal care and veterinary science sectors. Every qualification we offer is designed to meet the needs of modern Learners and Employers while maintaining full compliance with Ofqual regulations.
In contrast, non-accredited or unregulated courses are not externally regulated by an awarding body or official regulator. These courses may still provide useful knowledge or skills, but their assessments and learning outcomes have not been independently verified or recognised by a national regulator. As a result, their acceptance can vary between employers and they are generally not recognised internationally.
Choosing a regulated qualification through iPET Network ensures that your learning is credible, independently verified, and aligned with recognised national standards, giving you a qualification that truly carries weight in your professional journey.
What Is the Meaning of GLH and TQT?
Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and Total Qualification Time (TQT) are important terms used to describe the structure and time commitment of a qualification.
Guided Learning Hours refer to the amount of time a Learner is directly guided or supported by a Tutor. This includes in-person seminars, one-to-one tutorials, practical training sessions, or structured online learning. It can also include directed activities such as reading materials, completing tutor-assigned research, or listening to recommended podcasts.
Total Qualification Time represents the full amount of time required to achieve the qualification. It includes both the Guided Learning Hours and any additional time a Learner spends completing assignments, independent study, or assessments. In other words, TQT is the overall measure of effort needed to complete the qualification successfully.
What Makes a Qualification Regulated?
A regulated qualification is one that has been developed, assessed, and quality-assured in accordance with UK statutory education regulations. All regulated qualifications must be written to nationally recognised standards and delivered under the supervision of an Awarding Organisation approved by a government regulator such as Ofqual.
iPET Network is a fully regulated Awarding Organisation. Every qualification we offer meets the strict quality, moderation, and delivery standards set by Ofqual, ensuring that Learners receive credible, nationally recognised training. Choosing an iPET Network qualification means your achievement is both legitimate and respected across the UK and internationally.
How Do You Know If a Qualification Is Regulated?
To confirm whether a qualification is regulated by Ofqual, you can search for it on the official Ofqual Register at https://register.ofqual.gov.uk. This register lists all approved qualifications and Awarding Organisations in England.
All iPET Network qualifications are fully regulated and appear on the Ofqual Register, giving Learners confidence in the quality and recognition of their training.
How Do I Make an Appeal or Complaint?
iPET Network and its Approved Centres are committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring that all assessments are conducted fairly and consistently. If a Learner is unhappy with a service or assessment outcome, they must first follow the internal Complaints or Appeals Procedure at their Training Centre.
If the issue remains unresolved, the Learner can escalate their complaint or appeal directly to iPET Network, where it will be reviewed under our official Complaints and Appeals Policies to ensure fairness and transparency.
How Do I Report Malpractice or Maladministration?
If a Learner believes there has been malpractice or maladministration within their training environment, they can report it directly to iPET Network. The process is simple: visit the iPET Network website and download the “Malpractice and Maladministration Report Form”.
Once submitted, the report will be reviewed by an independent investigation panel which may contact the Learner for further information. iPET Network treats all reports seriously and ensures that every allegation is investigated thoroughly and confidentially.
What Makes iPET Network Unique?
iPET Network is a fully regulated Awarding Organisation specialising in Animal Care and Veterinary Science qualifications. Founded with a genuine desire to improve the lives of animals through education, our mission is simple, to raise industry standards by empowering those who care for animals every day.
Unlike traditional Awarding Bodies, iPET Network was built by professionals from within the animal care sector itself. Our founders and team members have first-hand experience as Tutors, Assessors, and business owners. That background means we understand the real challenges faced by training centres and learners, and we design our systems to remove unnecessary complexity.
As a new and forward-thinking organisation, we have redefined how qualifications are managed and delivered. Our modern approach to registration, assessment, and quality assurance makes the process faster, more transparent, and more responsive to the needs of both Centres and Learners. Because we are agile, we can adapt to emerging industry trends and respond quickly to the evolving needs of the animal care profession.
Every qualification we offer is Ofqual regulated, ensuring the highest standards of quality, compliance, and recognition. We combine academic rigour with real-world relevance so that every learner gains both the knowledge and the confidence to build a successful, meaningful career in animal care.
At our core, iPET Network is a community of passionate, experienced people with a shared goal: to be the Awarding Organisation of choice for animal care professionals across the UK. We may be smaller than some of the legacy bodies, but our personal touch, sector expertise, and commitment to genuine quality set us apart. We are real people, running real businesses, driven by a real passion to make a difference.
We may be small, but we have a big heart.
That heart drives everything we do.
How Long Do I Have to Complete My Qualification?
Each iPET Network qualification has a set registration duration that reflects the size and complexity of the course. This time frame ensures that all learning, assessment, and quality-assurance processes can be completed effectively. Learners should refer to their Qualification Specification, available on our website, for full details.
Your individual training Centre may offer a shorter completion period depending on its own learning contract and delivery model, so always confirm specific timelines with your Centre.
Who Is My Centre?
Your Centre is the training provider or organisation you enrolled with to complete your qualification. While iPET Network designs, regulates, and awards the qualification, your Centre is responsible for delivering the teaching, practical training, and day-to-day Learner support.
I Have an Issue with My Centre. How Do I Resolve It?
If you experience a problem with your Centre, the first step is always to discuss the issue directly and try to reach an informal resolution. If you remain unsatisfied after following your Centre’s internal procedures, you can refer to the official iPET Network Complaints Procedure for guidance on how to escalate your concern.
When Can I Call Myself Qualified?
You are officially qualified once your work has been verified and you have received your iPET Network certificate. This confirms that you have successfully completed all elements of your regulated qualification.
My Units Are Locked in the E-Portfolio - Who Do I Contact?
If your e-portfolio units appear locked or inaccessible, contact your Assessor or Tutor. They can review your progress and extend your access period if necessary to allow you to complete your work.
I Have Completed My Practical Work but Haven’t Received My Certificate
For qualifications that include both practical and theoretical components, such as dog grooming or animal-handling qualifications, your portfolio cannot be submitted for final sampling until all practical sessions are complete and all theory has been fully marked. Once both are approved, your Centre will forward the completed work to iPET Network for final verification and certification. If you are waiting for your certificate, please contact your Assessor first to confirm that all requirements have been met.
How long does it take to mark my work?
Please discuss marking timescales with your Assessor as this will depend on the individual Centre. Marking timescales may be outlined in your contract. iPET Network does not specify these timescales and is the responsibility of the Centre.
How Long Does It Take to Receive My iPET Network Certificate?
Once you have completed your qualification with your Centre, the process of issuing your iPET Network e-certificate typically takes between three and six months. This timeframe allows for all the required stages of marking, internal verification, and external quality assurance to be completed properly, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of every Learner’s achievement.
After you finish your training, your Assessor must first confirm that all assessments and evidence have been submitted, marked, and meet the required standards. When this stage is complete, your Centre carries out Internal Quality Assurance to review the marking and ensure all assessment decisions are consistent and valid.
Once the internal checks are finalised, your Centre will forward your completed portfolio to iPET Network’s External Quality Assurer (EQA). The EQA conducts a final independent review to confirm that the qualification meets Ofqual standards and that all criteria have been achieved correctly.
When the external quality assurance process is complete and approved, iPET Network issues your official e-certificate and sends it to your Centre for release to you.
Because every qualification is different in size and structure, the total timeframe can vary depending on the volume of work, the number of Learners being sampled, and whether any further actions are required by the quality team. For most Learners, the complete process takes between three and six months from the point of finishing the final assessment.
To avoid delays, make sure you have completed and submitted every required unit, confirmed your assessments are marked, and discussed timescales directly with your Centre.
I have forgotten my password to the e-portfolio, who do I contact?
Your assessor can reset your e-portfolio password for you if you ask them.
