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This guide describes how establishments should apply to nominate someone for a Named Training and Competency Officer (NTCO) role.Ìý

Inspectors in the Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU) will assess the application and make a decision based on the person’s suitability.

The Named Training and Competency Officer roleÌý

Every establishment using protected animals in procedures needs to appoint at least one person in the NTCO role. This person will ensure that anyone dealing with animals is adequately educated, trained and supervised until they are competent - and that they continue to undertake appropriate further training to maintain their expertise.

If an NTCO applies for a personal licence (PIL) or PIL amendment for themselves, the establishment licence (PEL) holder must nominate another NTCO at the establishment to endorse it.

For a full NTCO role description, readÌýsection 8.9 in the guidance on the operation of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).

Before you applyÌý

Before you nominate someone forÌýan NTCOÌýroleÌýyou must ensure:Ìý

• they have agreed to be nominated
• they have been added as a user on the Animals in Science Procedures e-licensing system (ASPeL)
• the PEL holder (or legally accountable person) supports the nomination
• you can describe how they demonstrate the recommended skills and experience

Recommended training modules

This section sets out the recommended training modules for an NTCO role.

You should refer to the module learning outcomes in annex A of the guidance for training and continuous professional development under ASPA. Links for each module part are included below.

L and E1Ìý

• ³¢±ð²µ¾±²õ±ô²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²ÔÌý(section 1)
• Ethics, animal welfare and the 3Rs (section 2)

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• Introduction to the local environment (section 50)

The NTCO should be familiar with:

• the regulated procedures, species and licence conditions at their establishment
• the local processes, people and structures, such as the AWERB

Read further information on the required knowledge and understanding for an NTCO (in the guidance for training and continuous professional development under ASPA).

Skills and experienceÌý

In the application, you will need to describe how the nominee demonstrates the following skills and experience:

• sufficient seniority to influence others and make decisions on training issues
• good communication, management and organisational skills

How to applyÌý

Establishments must submit the application in ASPeL.

ASRU will contact you with their decision or if they need more information.Ìý

Contact ASRUÌý

If you have any questions, contact asrulicensing@homeoffice.gov.uk.