Improve International has launched the latest tranche of online training for those seeking qualification as an Official Veterinarian (OV). 

The company says completion of the new training modules will lead to qualification in the following areas:

• OCQ(V) - SS (Statutory Surveillance)
  Covering statutory surveillance activities for 'endemic' diseases other than bTB.  These are currently Brucellosis, Anthrax and Sheep Scab. 
• OCQ(V) - EX (Exports, General)
  This is a foundation for other export modules, covering the basics of international trade and export certification and procedures. 
• OCQ(V) - SX (Small Animal Exports)
  The export of  companion animals, including pet birds and the Pet Travel Scheme.  It also includes the commercial export of  small animals, including the export of small zoo and laboratory animals. 
• OCQ (V) - UX (Ungulates export)
  Covering the export of ungulates, including equidae and large zoo and laboratory animals.

Improve has developed the training modules in conjunction with its assessment partner, the European School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ESVPS) and Harper Adams University, which validates the qualifications.

Improve was appointed to handle OV registration and training in England, Scotland and Wales by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) earlier this year. In August, it launched www.improve-ov.com, a new OV registration and training website which contains details of the new process and the new OCQ(V) qualification. Under the new system, individuals or employers fund their own OV training but benefit from the fact that they can access the majority of course content 24/7 on the new website at a convenient time and without having to be absent from the practice.

Existing OVs have 'grandfather rights' as long as they register on the new database by 31 March 2015. In addition, a revalidation requirement has been introduced for the first time which ensures all OV's will remain up to date.

Bethan Stephens MRCVS from the Milfeddygon Deufor practice in Wales, who has recently undertaken some OV training, said: "I found the registration and training easy to understand and it was very useful to be able to tackle it in bite-sized chunks over a few weeks, as and when I had time."

David Babington (pictured right), Managing Director of Improve International, said: "We've received an enthusiastic response to the OV training already launched and the number of vets both registering and qualifying continues to show  the desirability of these qualifications in an increasingly competitive  veterinary sector. We are working to a tight schedule to deliver all of the new OCQ(V) training by February 2015 and are delighted to launch the latest set of courses."  

For further information, visit www.improveinternational.com or call 01793 759159.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.