Approved Centre Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
We understand that becoming an approved iPET Network Centre is a significant decision, and you may have questions before taking the next step. While every organisation is different, we are often asked similar questions around approval, fees, and ongoing requirements.
Our Approved Centre FAQs are designed to give you clarity and confidence, covering topics such as:
The Centre approval and onboarding process
Typical timescales for approval
What evidence and documentation are required
How Centre fees are structured and applied
Ongoing quality assurance and monitoring expectations
Support available once you are approved
We believe that informed Centres are successful Centres. That’s why our FAQs are written in clear, straightforward language — helping you understand what to expect, how we work, and how we support you throughout your journey with iPET Network.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help. We encourage open conversations at every stage, from initial enquiry through to full approval and beyond.
What Support does iPET Network Provide?
iPET Network is committed to supporting Training Centres of all sizes in the successful delivery of its nationally recognised animal care and dog grooming qualifications.
When you partner with iPET Network, you will be introduced to a dedicated team of experienced professionals who provide ongoing guidance and support to ensure qualification standards are consistently met and best practice is maintained across all Centres.
Our Support Includes:
- Dedicated Centre support contacts
- Guidance on qualification delivery and assessment standards
- Support to help maintain quality assurance and compliance
- Access to resources designed to support effective teaching and learning
Our team is available by phone and email during business hours, ensuring help is always on hand when you need it.
Can I Deliver All Qualifications Once Approved?
Once approved as an iPET Network Centre, you will be required to submit an application for the specific qualifications you wish to deliver.
Approval is granted on a qualification-by-qualification basis. As long as you meet the individual qualification criteria and can clearly demonstrate that you have the appropriate facilities, resources, staffing, and assessment processes in place for successful delivery, the qualification will be approved during the onboarding audit.
Adding Additional Qualifications
Centres are not limited to their initial approval. Additional qualifications can be applied for at any time, including when new qualifications are launched by iPET Network. Each additional qualification will require a separate application and review process to ensure quality standards are maintained.
For further guidance or information about new or upcoming qualifications, please contact your dedicated Account Manager, who will be happy to support you through the application process.
Is there an extra cost for offering additional qualifications?
There is an additional cost for qualification approval for a new qualification. Please refer to our fees for more details.
What Does the EQA Process Entail
EQA (External Quality Assurance) is the formal process used to review and audit the quality and integrity of a qualification to ensure it meets required standards and remains valid, consistent, and nationally recognised.
During an EQA audit, an External Quality Assurer will review all aspects of a Centre’s qualification delivery, including:
- Centre resources, such as staffing, qualifications, and premises
- Qualification delivery processes
- Learner progression, achievement, and feedback
- Assessment methods and evidence
- Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) procedures
- Compliance with Awarding Body standards
The purpose of the EQA process is to maintain qualification validity, ensure consistency across Centres, and promote best practice in teaching, assessment, and quality assurance.
Supporting Centres Through EQA
At iPET Network, we understand that the EQA process can feel daunting, particularly for new Centres. Our approach is supportive and developmental, with audits designed to identify areas for improvement, share good practice, and help standardise high-quality delivery across all Centres.
Where necessary, actions may be raised following an audit to support continuous improvement. Learner certificates are released once rolling sampling has been successfully completed by the EQA, ensuring confidence in assessment decisions.
How Often Do EQA Audits Take Place?
EQA audits typically take place once per year, although additional audits may be arranged if required, depending on Centre activity or qualification delivery needs. However at iPET Network we complete rolling sampling of Learners that have completed their qualification ensuring the Learners receive their certificates in a timely manner.
What Does the IQA Process Entail?
IQA (Internal Quality Assurance) is the structured process used by a Centre to monitor, review, and maintain the quality of qualification delivery and assessment. It ensures that Tutors are delivering qualifications correctly, consistently, and in line with Awarding Organisation requirements. At iPET Network, we can provide these services using our fully qualified and industry competent IQAs and this service is part of iPET Network’s Gold registration package.
The IQA process focuses on confirming that:
- Assessment decisions are fair, valid, and reliable
- Assessors are meeting qualification criteria and standards
- Learner evidence is sufficient and accurately assessed
- Centre policies and procedures are being followed
How the IQA Process Works
The scope and frequency of IQA activity are determined by the Assessor Risk Rating, which is set by the Awarding Organisation. This risk rating considers factors such as:
- A new Centre or new Assessor
- Delivery of a new qualification
- Previous assessment or quality assurance outcomes
Based on this risk level, the Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) will review an appropriate sample of learner work, assessment decisions, and feedback to ensure compliance with qualification standards. Sampling strategies are designed to be proportionate, effective, and supportive.
Supporting Continuous Improvement
The IQA process is not only about compliance; it also supports continuous improvement by:
- Providing constructive feedback to Assessors
- Identifying training or development needs
- Promoting consistent assessment practice across the Centre
By maintaining a robust IQA process, Centres can demonstrate quality, consistency, and confidence in assessment decisions, helping to ensure successful EQA outcomes and Learner achievement
Can I access the resources for all qualifications if approved?
Once approved, you can gain access to the qualifications resources that you are approved for. As you are approved for different qualifications, you will be given the access to those resources.
Why Is the E-Portfolio Beneficial for Learners’ Studies?
The E-Portfolio is a powerful digital learning tool that enhances the Learner experience by bringing all qualification requirements, evidence, and feedback together in one secure online platform.
Key Benefits for Learners
Technological advancements in education have made studying more efficient and transparent, and the E-Portfolio is a clear example of this. It allows Learners to:
- Clearly view the qualification criteria and understand what is required to achieve each unit
- Submit evidence, complete tasks, and answer assessment questions in one place
- Receive timely Assessor feedback, with all comments stored centrally
- Track progress and improvements over time, creating a clear and structured learning journey
Benefits for Assessors and Quality Assurance
The E-Portfolio also supports Assessors, and Quality Assurance teams by:
- Highlighting work that requires marking or review
- Supporting effective Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) and External Quality Assurance (EQA) tracking
- Ensuring transparency and consistency, keeping everyone aligned and informed throughout the qualification process
By using an E-Portfolio, Learners benefit from a clearer understanding of expectations, improved organisation, and visible progress, while Centres benefit from efficient assessment, quality assurance, and compliance.
Do I need to pay for extra EQA audits to release a learner's certificate earlier?
Certificates cannot be released until EQA sampling takes place, which occurs on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Will I be visited by the EQA?
An EQA audit will occur once a year. The audits can be completed in person or remotely.
Do I need to pay the joining fee every year?
There is a one off joining fee that is paid at the time of first application to iPET Network. This fee is not repeated, you will only then pay for each registration.
Can I join a qualification training day for a particular qualification to learn how it is delivered?
We positively encourage our Centres to work together and many are happy for new Centres to join their courses to understand the delivery method. However, this is entirely at the Centre’s discretion and may incur costs.
How long does Centre approval take?
Timescales can vary depending on readiness and the completeness of submitted information. In most cases, approval can be completed within a few weeks. We work efficiently and communicate clearly throughout, so you always know what stage you are at.
What fees are involved in becoming an Approved Centre?
Centre fees vary depending on the qualifications and services you wish to offer. All fees are communicated clearly in advance, with no hidden costs. We provide transparent breakdowns so you understand exactly what each fee covers and can plan with confidence.
Can we add more qualifications after approval?
Yes. Once approved, centres can apply to add additional qualifications or services. Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring expansion is smooth and aligned with your organisation’s growth.
What makes iPET Network different from other Awarding Organisations?
iPET Network specialises in the Animal care and Veterinary Science sector. Our sector‑specific expertise, supportive approach, transparent fees, and commitment to quality make us a trusted partner for centres that want more than a transactional relationship.
How do we get started?
Getting started is simple. Contact our team to discuss your organisation, your goals, and the qualifications you wish to deliver. We’ll explain the process, outline fees clearly, and support you every step of the way.
Who can apply to become an Approved Centre?
We welcome applications from a wide range of organisations, including independent training providers, colleges, private academies, employers, and specialist animal care businesses. Whether you are an established provider or new to regulated qualifications, our team will guide you through the process.
What does it mean to be an iPET Network Approved Centre?
Becoming an Approved Centre means your organisation is authorised to deliver iPET Network qualifications and/or services. Approval confirms that your Centre meets our quality, compliance, and delivery standards, ensuring learners receive high‑quality education and assessment aligned with industry expectations.
Join the iPET Network
As the animal care industry evolves, iPET Network continues to innovate – creating new qualifications, supporting Approved Centres, and advancing education for animal welfare.
Partner with a regulated Awarding Organisation that understands your sector.
EDUCATION FOR PEOPLE, FOR PETS, FOR THE FUTURE
Education for People. For Pets. For the Future.
