Frequently Asked Questions
1. About Premier Skills Institute
Q: What is Premier Skills Institute?
A: Premier Skills Institute is an independent veterinary education and training provider under the Duggan Veterinary Group. We offer high-quality CPD and skills-based training for veterinary surgeons, nurses, technicians, and practice teams, delivered through a mix of lectures, wet labs, workshops, and blended learning.
Q: Where are you based?
A: Our purpose-built education facility is located in Thurles, Co. Tipperary, in the heart of Ireland. We are easily accessible by road and rail, with regular intercity train connections and nearby accommodation options.
Q: Who are your courses for?
A: Our programmes are designed primarily for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, but we also provide training suitable for veterinary care assistants, practice managers, and wider practice teams where relevant.
2. Courses & Accreditation
Q: Are your courses accredited?
A: Yes. All Premier Skills Institute onsite courses are submitted for approval and recognised by the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI). Courses run in partnership with Improve Veterinary Education are certified by ISVPS (International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies) and/or Harper Adams University.
Q: Will I receive a certificate?
A: Yes. All delegates who complete a course receive a certificate of completion, which can be used as evidence of CPD for professional records and regulatory requirements.
Q: How many CPD/CVE credits will I earn?
A: The number of CPD or CVE credits varies by course and is clearly stated in the course description. Credits are easily trackable within your personal learning profile.
Q: Do you offer a mix of theory and practical training?
A: Yes. Many of our programmes are specifically designed to blend evidence-based lectures with advanced practical sessions in our state-of-the-art wet lab, ensuring skills can be applied directly in practice.
3. Booking & Payment
Q: How do I book a course?
A: You can book directly through our website by selecting your chosen course and completing the online registration form. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email with full course details.
Q: How can I pay for my course?
A: Typically, payment is made at the time of booking, and invoices can be arranged for practices where required.
Q: Can my practice book multiple team members at once?
A: Yes. Practices are welcome to register multiple delegates for the same course. If you wish to book a larger group or discuss tailored training, please contact us directly, or see instructions below.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Please see our Terms & Conditions.
4. On the Day: Attendance & Facilities
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: Registration normally opens around 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. Exact timings are included in your confirmation email and pre-course information.
Q: Is parking available on site?
A: Yes. We provide on-site parking for delegates attending our courses. Details are included in your joining instructions.
Q: Are refreshments and lunch provided?
A: Typically, tea/coffee and light refreshments are provided, and many full-day courses include lunch. Please check the course information or confirmation email for details.
Q: Can you cater for dietary requirements?
A: Yes. If dietary requirements are provided in advance (e.g. at the time of booking or by contacting us before the course), we will do our best to accommodate them.
Q: Do you provide all equipment and materials?
A: Yes. All required course materials, notes, and practical equipment are provided on the day. Delegates may wish to bring a laptop, or tablet for additional note-taking.
5. Travel & Accommodation
Q: How do I get to Premier Skills Institute?
A: We are located in Thurles, Co. Tipperary, close to the M8 and within easy reach of Thurles Train Station. Full address and directions are provided in your booking confirmation and on our “How to Find Us” page.
Q: Do you arrange accommodation?
A: We do not book accommodation directly, but there are several local hotels and guesthouses nearby. We can provide suggestions for places to stay if required.
6. Personal Learning Profile & CPD Records
Q: How do I access my CPD record and certificates?
A: Delegates receive certificates via email after completing their course. Where a personal learning profile or portal is available, you will receive login or access details and can view your course history and CPD/CVE credits.
Q: Can I get a copy of a past certificate?
A: Yes. If you require a duplicate certificate, please contact us with your name, course title, and date of attendance, and we will be happy to reissue it.
7. Tailored & Practice-Based Training
Q: Do you offer bespoke or in-practice training?
A: Yes. For practices or groups with specific training needs, we can discuss tailored programmes delivered at Premier Skills Institute or, in some cases, at your practice. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Q: Can industry partners collaborate with Premier Skills Institute?
A: Absolutely. We welcome collaboration with veterinary organisations, universities, and industry partners to develop high-quality, evidence-based programmes. Please get in touch to explore partnership opportunities.
8. Contact Us
Q: How can I contact Premier Skills Institute?
A: You can reach our team by email or phone, or via the contact form on our website. Our CPD Coordinator and team are happy to help with any queries about bookings, courses, or accreditation.
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9. Bookings
Q: How do I make a course bookng?
A:
Individual Booking
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Go to Find Courses
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Select the course you wish to book (you can search by locations and categories)
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Choose date
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Click see details
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Select your session
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Add number of attendees
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Select Book Now or Enquire Now
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Enter contact and payment details - you can pay by credit or debit card
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Once payment has been taken, an email confirmation of booking will be sent to the email address you provided
Organisation Booking
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Go to Find Courses
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Select the course you wish to book (you can search by locations and categories)
-
Choose date
-
Click see details
-
Select your session
-
Add number of attendees
-
Add additional attendee details
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Select Book Now or Enquire Now
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Enter contact and payment details - you can pay by credit or debit card, or request an invoice
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Once payment has been taken, an email confirmation of booking will be sent to the email address you provided. An email will also be issued to the other attendees with the email addresse(s) you provided
To see our selection of 'How To' videos, please click here.