Initially we expect a mixture of existing C-, J- and E-SQPs to add the module to their existing qualifications, and individuals new to being an SQP to train as avian SQPs (or avian plus companion and/or equine). Like all other SQPs, avian-only SQPs will be required also to pass the base module and the oral exam.

Although there is nothing to preclude SQPs who have the farm animal module from gaining the avian module too, AMTRA still considers those who have the farm animal module to be competent to prescribe and supply avian VPS medicines.

We intend to allow candidates to sit the avian module exam on any occasion when our existing centres are hosting SQP exams on or after 20 March.

Currently supportive training courses are under development and we will add details to our website as soon as they are available. In the meantime, home study remains an option for those keen to progress quickly.

I am delighted to welcome three such well qualified people to the AMTRA assessor team. Our current team was being stretched by the many exams now being offered as the number of SQPs continues to grow rapidly. I know that many candidates are nervous about the oral exam, and it’s important to have quality assessors that can put people at their ease and allow them to show what they know.

Pam Mosedale is a locum vet who is active in veterinary dispensing training courses, and joint editor of the BSAVA Guide to the Use of Veterinary Medicines.

Pam has had extensive experience as a Practice Standards Inspector first for the BSAVA and then since the start of the Practice Standards Scheme for the RCVS. This involves discussions on the regulations with all practice staff, from receptionists through to vets. She is also a veterinary investigator for the RCVS.

Pam qualified in 1979, and has worked firstly in mixed practice then in small animal practice since then. She was a partner in a Small Animal Hospital for 17 years.

“I am very much looking forward to joining the AMTRA assessor team. I think SQPs have a very important role to play in the safe and efficient use of veterinary medicines,” she said.

Victoria Roberts qualified as a vet as a mature student graduating from Liverpool Vet School in 2000, having previously been an SQP. She is currently working as a repeat locum vet and poultry consultant, and teaches pets and small furries at Liverpool vet school.

She is also Honorary Veterinary Surgeon to The Poultry Club, edits the British Poultry Standards and has been on their Council for the past eighteen years. She has been Secretary to the Dorking Breed Club for nineteen years, and has written three books on poultry.

She is involved with various veterinary associations and was appointed President of the British Veterinary Zoological Society in 2010 for two years.

“It is important that SQPs are properly trained, and that they have all the information they need. They’ve also got to be able to communicate with clients. I have come up through those ranks, so I understand exactly where they are coming from,” she said.

Elspeth Scott works part-time as a Veterinary Investigation Officer with the SAC, and part time as a veterinary consultant for Pentlands Management Systems Ltd in Edinburgh, a consultancy firm for the pharmaceutical and bio technology industries.

She has broad experience including veterinary research on parasitology and pharmacology, and teaching experience including assessment of students.

Elspeth graduated from Glasgow University in 1985, and followed this with a PhD in Veterinary Pharmacy and Parasitology, and a Post Doctorate Research Fellowship at the Veterinary School in Glasgow for three years.

She then worked at the Moredun Institute in Edinburgh as a Clinical Veterinary Officer, and after that worked as a Home Office inspector, which she left last October.

She has also gained a European Diploma in Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology with the European College.

Elspeth said: “I always enjoyed teaching, lecturing and examining throughout my career. Becoming an AMTRA Assessor will allow me to put my pharmacology background to good use. Also, working at the SAC I keep abreast of what is going on.”

More information in the Guidance for SQPs.

Virbac is bringing SQPs the opportunity to undertake one or both of a pair of webinars on equine parasitology on 11 and 25 May, worth 20 points to those participating in both events.

Elanco have announced three new CPD webinar dates that will earn 6 points for attendees. On the subject of parasitic gastroenteritis in cattle, the meetings will take place on May 16th, June 7th and June 21st 2011 at 17.30 hrs and will last for approximately one hour.

For more details on how to register for these events, and for other CPD events open to all SQPs, see the AMTRA website.

Once planned for October 2010, the VMD had expected most recently that they would come into force on 1 June 2011, but with time marching on that now looks unlikely, and it wouldn’t surprise us to find them arriving on 1 October 2011.

There will be an afternoon session on companion animals and an evening session on farm livestock. SQPs may attend either or both. This is a great opportunity to make sure you are up to speed on key topics, as well as gaining CPD points before AMTRA’s 30 June deadline.

SQPs from AHDA members can attend the event free of charge – subject to available space, so book now.

Other SQPs can attend having paid £18 inc. VAT per person.

Get the booking form from the AMTRA website: http://www.amtra.org.uk/cpd/events.htm

To register for your FREE place please ring Hellen or Sandra at EBLEX on 0870 609 1840 / 01904 771211 or email brpevents@eblex.org.uk