Our Qualifications in Detail
Stage 1: iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage
Ofqual Qualification Number: 610/4035/6
​
​
You can access the Qualification Handbook HERE
​
The iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage qualification has been designed to cater to individuals aspiring to become Animal Sports Massage Therapists and/or progress towards becoming Veterinary Physiotherapists. The qualification is also suitable for those currently working as an Animal Sports Massage Therapist or Veterinary Physiotherapist seeking formal recognition through a regulated qualification. This comprehensive qualification covers theoretical learning across a variety of animal species, with the practical elements focusing on the two main species of canines and equines.
​
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1170
Credits at Level 4: 117
Directed Learning Hours: 845
- of which GLH: 235
Practical Hours: 217
​
Study Skills and Reflective Practice
2 Credits
The aim of this unit is to enable the Learner to develop the knowledge and understanding of study skills to include academic writing and evidence-based practices, providing a solid foundation for further study. In addition, this unit will enable the Learner to develop knowledge of reflective practice which is necessary for a successful career within the Animal Sports Massage and Veterinary Physiotherapy industry.
Personal and Professional Development
10 Credits
The aim of this unit is to provide the knowledge and understanding in supporting the personal development of the Animal Sports Massage Therapist an ultimately the Veterinary Physiotherapist, preparing them for a career within the industry. The Learner will cover mental health management, time management, organisation, communication skills and the concept of a personal brand.
Professional Practice
20 Credits
The aim of this unit is to provide the knowledge and understanding of professional practice in the Animal Musculoskeletal Therapy and Veterinary Physiotherapy sector including the legal, ethical and professional standards required and the importance of health and safety frameworks and standards. This unit covers the key concepts of massage, rehabilitation and physiotherapy and their benefits.
Animal Health, Welfare and Behaviour
20 Credits
The aim of this unit is to provide the knowledge and understanding to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, promote good animal health and husbandry and understand animal behaviour. This unit introduces Learners to key concepts and legislation relating to animal health, behaviour and welfare.
Anatomy Fundamentals
15 credits
The aim of this unit is for Learners to develop fundamental underpinning knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of animals, including the main body systems and their respective functions. This unit will also address key veterinary and anatomical terminology.
Musculoskeletal Anatomy
20 credits
The aim of this unit is to provide the knowledge and understanding of the mammalian musculoskeletal system relevant to the role of Animal Sports Massage Therapist and to build a strong foundation for the further development for the role of Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist and Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Clinical Competency and Practice
30 Credits
The aim of this unit is to develop the clinical competence and practical skills required as an Animal Sports Massage Therapist, creating a strong foundation for further study as an Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist and ultimately as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Stage 2: iPET Network Level 5 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation
Ofqual Qualification Number: 610/4037/X
​
https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Detail/Index/50457?category=qualifications&query=iPET
​
You can access the Qualification Handbook HERE
​
The iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage qualification has been designed to cater to individuals aspiring to become Animal Sports Massage Therapists and/or progress towards becoming Veterinary Physiotherapists. The qualification is also suitable for those currently working as an Animal Sports Massage Therapist or Veterinary Physiotherapist seeking formal recognition through a regulated qualification. This comprehensive qualification covers theoretical learning across a variety of animal species, with the practical elements focusing on the two main species of canines and equines.
​
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1220
Credits at Level 5: 122
Directed Learning Hours: 912
- of which GLH: 297
Practical Hours: 330
​
Study Skills and Reflective Practice
2 Credits
The aim of this unit is to enable Learners to develop the study skills necessary to complete the Level 5 qualification in Sports Massage and Rehabilitation and provide a solid foundation for further study. This unit will also enable the Learner to further develop the reflective practice skills necessary for a successful career within the veterinary physiotherapy industry.
Personal and Professional Development
10 Credits
To aim of this unit is to support the personal development of those working towards becoming an Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist and ultimately a Veterinary Physiotherapist, preparing them for a career within the industry. Learners will gain an understanding of the concepts of a positive mindset and professional identity, learning the importance of mental health management and clinical communication. Learners will also be able to reflect on their personal development.
Orthopaedics and Neurology
15 Credits
The aim of this unit is to provide Learners with the fundamental knowledge and theory of orthopaedics and neurology to underpin their work in animal sports massage and rehabilitation and to form the basis for further study as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Disease, Dysfunction, Illness and Injury
15 Credits
The aim of this unit is to ensure that Learners have a broad understanding of musculoskeletal disease, dysfunction, illness and injury. Learners will evaluate the effects of the musculoskeletal system, providing fundamental knowledge and theory relevant to the role of Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist, and a strong foundation of knowledge for the Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Biomechanics and Locomotion
15 credits
The aim of this unit is to ensure that Learers have a strong understanding of biomechanics and locomotion, can evaluate the various factors impacting on movement of the musculoskeletal system, providing fundamental knowledge and theory relevant to the role of Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist, and a strong foundation of knowledge for the Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Exercise Physiology
15 credits
The aim of this unit is to provide Learners with an understanding of exercise physiology, which is a fundamental underpinning for the Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist, and forms the basis for further study as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Exercise Prescription and Rehabilitation
15 Credits
The aim of this unit is to ensure that Learnershave a strong understanding of the theory and practice of exercise prescription and rehabilitation, can evaluate the application of such knowledge and theory in relation to individual cases, providing fundamental understanding relevant to the role of Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist, and a strong underpinning of knowledge for the Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Clinical Competency and Practice
35 Credits
The aim of this unit is to develop the clinical competence and practical skills required as an Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist, creating a strong foundation for further study as a Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist and ultimately as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Stage 3: iPET Network Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy
Ofqual Qualification Number: 610/4038/1
​
https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Detail/Index/50458?category=qualifications&query=iPET%20physiotherapy
​
You can access the Qualification Handbook HERE
​
The iPET Network Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy qualification has been designed to cater to individuals aspiring to become Veterinary Physiotherapists. The qualification is also suitable for those currently working as a Veterinary Physiotherapist seeking formal recognition through a regulated qualification. This comprehensive qualification covers theoretical learning across a variety of animal species, with the practical elements focusing on the two main species of canines and equines.
​
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1720
Credits at Level 6: 172
Directed Learning Hours: 1076
- of which GLH: 306
Practical Hours: 360
​
Advanced Study Skills and Lifelong Learning
2 Credits
The aim of this unit is to enable the learner to develop the study skills necessary to complete the Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy. This unit will also enable the learner to further develop the reflective practice skills necessary for a successful career within the veterinary physiotherapy industry.
Personal and Professional Development
10 Credits
To aim of this unit is to support the personal development of those working towards becoming a Veterinary Physiotherapist, preparing them for a career within the industry. Learners will gain an understanding of the concepts of mental toughness and resiliance, communication skills, marketing and USP and personal branding, along with other key business skills. Learners will also be able to reflect on their personal development.
Related Professions
20 Credits
The learner will develop an appropriate understanding of the wider veterinary healthcare industry. This unit addresses the operation of the Multidisciplinary Team being of upmost importance within the animal therapy industry as a whole and is key to the success of the Veterinary Physiotherapist. This unit aims to introduce the learner to related professions within the industry.
Advanced Physiotherapy Skills
30 Credits
The learner will develop an understanding of advanced physiotherapy approaches and techniques. This unit will also address physiotherapy and rehabilitation of a range of patients including post-surgical, neurological, juvenile, geriatric, non-ambulatory and respiratory. The unit also covers physiotherapy for palliative and end of life care.
Electro-Physical Agents in Physiotherapy
30 credits
The aim of this unit is to provide the knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of electro-physical agents (EPAs) in physiotherapy. This unit will address the history, current evidence base, dose calculations and safe and effective use of EPAs.
Clinical Reasoning and Decision Making
15 Credits
The aim of this unit is to enable the veterinary physiotherapist to develop the essential clinical reasoning and decision making skills, effectively combining their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, function, disfunction and disease, a range of common conditions, treatment options and contraindications, and apply this knowledge to a range of complex scenarios.
Clinical Competency and Practice
35 Credits
This unit aims to develop the clinical competence and practical skills required as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.
Research Project
35 Credits
Candidates will develop essential research skills in the field of veterinary physiotherapy through undertaking a research project.