South Coast Hydrotherapy School is part of a busy veterinary practice whose prinicpal is currently completing his certificate in orthopaedic surgery. The hydrotherapy unit is a busy practice in its own right and students have plenty of opportunity to observe and assist with real life cases as well as plenty of time to learn with a wide variety of in house dogs, and when necessary cats and even ferrets!

There are two elements to the courses; hands-on training is provided at our own purpose built, larger-than-average, canine swimming pool with power jets, a large ramp and underwater treadmill. Lectures are delivered by experienced hydrotherapists, physiotherapists, dog trainers and veterinary surgeons, according to an accredited curriculum, under the capable principal, Olivia Naisbitt.

All of our tutors are available to provide extra tuition and coaching to the students who have completed the practical component of the course and are compiling their portfolios in their own time.

We have strictly limited numbers on our courses as we believe in delivering quality not quantity, and wish to maintain the friendly, personal touch whilst providing as much individual tuition to our learners as possible. In this way we are able to guarantee a minimum of 40 hours practical hands on experience in the pool and treadmill, rather than just observing. We are also able to tailor our delivery of the curriculum to a student’s individual needs and previous experience. We like to believe that our students leave not only with a qualification, but with the practical ability to confidently deliver hydrotherapy.

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Hydrotherapy Taster day

For those who are interested in the field of hydrotherapy, but are unsure whether it is the ideal career route for them, we offer taster days.

The day will consist of a chance to observe the hydro-therapist carrying out their duties and gaining some hands on experience. They will be able to assist the therapist and gain a real insight on the reality of the job.

Download a booking form here.

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Foundation Course in Small Animal Hydrotherapy

This is an intensive two-day theory and practical course that is ideal for those with little to no animal handling experience or anatomical knowledge who are considering a career in the small animal hydrotherapy field.

The foundation course in small animal hydrotherapy is designed to provide the learner with the basic practical skills and underpinning knowledge required in order to progress onto, and complete, a Level 3 certificate or diploma in hydrotherapy for small animals.

During the programme, you will learn about small animal hydrotherapy, basic anatomy and physiology, animal handling and a basic understanding of dog behaviour and body language. The course contains a blend of knowledge, practical application and theory.

This course is delivered at Springbok Hydrotherapy Centre by fully qualified Hydrotherapists, Veterinary Physiotherapists and Dog Trainers.

Download a booking form here.

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Level 3 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy

This NEW qualification is accredited by ABC awards, part of the Skills and Education group, a leading provider of vocational awards in the UK.

This qualification is designed for learners who already have experience of working with canines in an employed or voluntary capacity in roles such as veterinary nurse or dog groomer.

This course is designed to provide the learner with the practical skills and underpinning knowledge to professionally deliver hydrotherapy to canines. For this reason, we limit the number of students on each course for maximum practical experience and individual tuition.

This course offers you 12 units with choices. You study 9 mandatory units and 1 optional unit of your choosing.

9 Mandatory units:

• Introduction to canine hydrotherapy
• Common canine conditions
• Canine anatomy
• Canine physiology
• Canine health status and first aid
• Canine assessment processes
• Pratical administration of canine hydrotherapy treatments
• Water management
• Professional and ethical practice

Optional units:

Choose at least one of the following units to complete your certificate.

• Canine behaviour and clinical practice
• Introduction to canine gait and movement
• Introduction to aquatic treadmill practice

The four-week course runs every five weeks, and every day consists of theory and practical sessions, with an opportunity to have extra tuition if required.

Assessment is in the form of both practical assessments during the course, culminating in three final case studies and the completion of a written portfolio in the student’s own time. Tutors are available for further help during completion of the portfolio via email, phone or skype/video calls. There is also a dedicated Facebook student group with useful articles and videos, and the opportunity to exchange ideas and resources.

Download a booking form here.

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First Aid for hydrotherapists

Small animal first aid for hydrotherapists – how to recognise and deal with any possible emergencies. This can be taken as part of the qualification, as CPD or as a stand alone unit. It is recognised by CHA and NARCH for the purposes of updating your first aid certificate.

Download a booking form here.

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CPD for hydrotherapists

Small animal first aid for hydro-therapists – how to recognise and deal with any possible emergencies. CHA and Narch approved refresher courses.

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NEW Level 4 Diploma in canine hydrotherapy

This NEW qualification will be launching in spring 2019. It is accredited by ABC awards, part of the Skills and Education group, a leading provider of vocational awards in the UK.

This qualification is designed for level 3 qualified hydrotherapists wishing to advance their clinical skills and knowledge within in their profession. The level 4 Diploma will have a modular format consisting of both practical and theoretical assessments.

Please email Olivia Naisbitt to be added to our waiting list:
SCHydro@outlook.com

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Level 3 Certificate 2020 dates

We run the level 3 certificate course throughout the year. Please see below for the details on the course dates for 2020. Please contact Olivia on SCHydro@outlook.com to enquire about 2019 course dates.

The fourth week requires you to choose one unit, either Canine behaviour, Canine movement or Underwater treatmill and attend a one day course to cover the topic.