Foot trimming instruction should only be attempted by someone that is skilled and qualified to do it. Dutch 5 step method requires experience and expertise to interpret correctly. Without this candidates may establish bad habits and may require retraining. If you are a qualified foot trimming instructor and a proficient foot trimmer then please contact the NACFT committee in order to be added to the list. You must provide evidence that you hold the appropriate foot trimming qualification (Dutch diploma or level 3 NPTC certificate), instructor’s qualification, first aid training and relevant insurance details (professional indemnity and public liability).

Recognised qualifications in cattle foot trimming competence:

Dutch diploma – currently only Pieter Kloosterman awards the Dutch diploma. In order to gain your Dutch diploma you need to have attended a 4 day course and been on a check day with Pieter to ensure you are trimming at the necessary standard. Diploma exams are held regularly, organised by John Dawson at Embryonics.

NPTC – there are two levels of qualification available through NPTC: a stockman/herdsman level (level 2 certificate) and a professional foot trimmer level (level 3 diploma). The stockman/herdsman level is suitable for someone who has attended 4 days of training by an approved instructor, although it is recommended you attend one further check day after consolidating your training. The professional foot trimmer level requires 370 hours of notional learning time, so please contact NPTC for further information. Assessment schedules are available at: http://www.nptc.org.uk/assessment-schedules/ . Only NPTC qualified assessors are used who have attained recognised proficiency at foot trimming (qualification and peer assessed) and have pass a formal training programme. To register for this qualification please contact Marshall Clements (tel. 01934 862288 or email mt.clements@btconnect.com ) who will provide details of the next assessment day.

Other courses may be available but it is recommended you check these are attaining a nationally recognised level of competency. Many courses will issue a certificate of attendance but will not be able issue certificates of competency. Further training may be needed to attain an appropriate level of performance.

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