Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Tell me more about Improve CPD.
A: Improve CPD was established in 1998 by a group of veterinary surgeons from across the UK, including a number of recognised experts. The mission of the Company is to provide the highest quality CPD in a format that allows delegates to develop their skills and knowledge in a logical and progressive fashion, under the supervision of dedicated Course Directors each of whom has the highest qualifications in his or her field.
The Company currently organises CPD courses in venues across the UK and Eire, and has launching CPD programmes in a number of other countries including Spain, Portugal, Norway, Sweden and Italy in recent years. As Improve continues to expand rapidly, the management team also grows, to ensure that we can provide all our clients with the highest possible level of service.
Further details on any of these services can be obtained by calling Improve on (01793) 759159.
Q: CPD like this often seems like quite a large investment of both money and time. How do I know it will be cost effective?
A: One of the best things to invest in is yourself and your career. All of the courses offered will not only increase your job satisfaction and boost your enthusiasm, but also offer you the chance to learn new procedures and practical skills that can be put into practice as new services for your clients. Also should you choose to do a modular course and then register for the relevant ESVPS examination they can help you gain a valuable postgraduate qualification.
Q: I’m concerned that other delegates will be more knowledgeable than me. Is that a problem?
A: We have been providing similar courses for many years, and each course always contains a mix of delegates, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. The opportunity to meet regularly with like-minded peers is an excellent and stimulating way to develop. In our experience, whatever the starting point of each delegate, all reach a similar high standard by the end.
Q: How can I fit a modular CPD programme into my busy life?
A: Wherever possible, we have tried to ensure two modules are offered back-to-back for the duration of the course to reduce delegate travel time and costs and make the learning experience more immersive. There are great leisure and spa facilities at the vast majority of our venues and these are free for delegates on Improve courses to use. We even feed you, so that’s one less thing to worry about!
Q: I want to register on a modular course but I may be away for some of the modules. Does this mean I will miss out?
A: No. We understand that our delegates are busy professionals and aim to be as flexible as possible. Whilst we need advance notice if you are going to be unable to attend a particular module, we will make every effort to find you an alternative venue and date. If the alternative dates don’t suit, you can probably attend the missed module when the programme runs the following year. The only restriction is that you need to attend at least 80% of the taught modules before you can sit the relevant ESVPS examination.
Q: If I sit and pass an ESVPS examination, will the RCVS include it in their register?
A: As the GPCert qualifications are new, there is no guarantee at this time that the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons will include the qualification in their Register. This does not, however, prevent individuals from listing the qualification after their name in their own documents or business notices.
Q: Do I have to register for the ESVPS certificate to attend a General Practitioner Certificate programme?
A: No. Many previous delegates have completed courses with no desire to enrol for a certificate and have benefited enormously.
Q: If I embark on a General Practitioner Certificate programme, will I have to do much work in my own time?
A: Not necessarily. Tutors will give recommendations for further reading, and we do find that delegates are so stimulated by the course that most choose to do some additional learning, but you will gain either way. However you will naturally need to do additional private study if you wish to sit and be successful in the ESVPS examination.
Q: What other learning resources will be made available to me to help me with my General Practitioner programme?
A: You will be provided with workbooks to help you through the learning process. These will give you advice and guidance, and can be used as a reflective learning tool. Each tutor will also offer you additional information on further reading and learning both on-line and off-line.
Q: I don’t know if I/we can pay for my modular course just yet. Should I delay until next year?
A: No. Call us. It is important that you register your intention to attend the course and at the same time explain your situation to us. Our flexibility extends to staged payments and pay-as-you-go options.