Training qualification creator iPET Network has been awarded grant funding to develop bilingual animal-related qualifications for Welsh speakers.
iPET has received funding from Qualifications Wales’ Welsh Language Support Grant to create five new qualifications in key animal care sectors, which are designated as in need of staff by the government.
The qualifications that will be available bilingually are: iPET Network Level 1 Award in Preparing for Work in Dog Grooming; iPET Network Level 2 Diploma Animal Care; iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid; iPET Network Level 3 Award in Equine Emergency First Aid; and iPET Network Level 2 Award in First Aid for Dogs.
The qualifications, which will be available for delivery from April 2024, will enable learners for whom Welsh is their preferred language to have the opportunity to learn and complete the qualifications in Welsh. With the support of iPET Networks approved training providers, the qualifications will be designated for funding, allowing those who can teach and train in Welsh the option to register learners.
Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, founders of iPET Network, said: “We are so thrilled to be offering these new qualifications in Wales, and hope that more colleges sign up to deliver them.
“As well as being more accessible for those whose preferred language is Welsh, the qualifications are far more based on becoming ready for work than anything else out there and smaller qualifications to support additional learning.”
Dr. Alex Lovell, qualifications manager at Qualifications Wales, said: “We are pleased to have awarded grant funding to iPET Network to ensure that these brand-new qualifications will be available in both Welsh and English from the point of first delivery.
“Providing an active and equal offer to learners in Wales from the outset reflects best practice and increases the likelihood that learners will take up new qualifications in Welsh.”
