REPS NEWS

After consultation with employers and training providers, it was agreed that new level 2 qualifications would include information that would allow level 2 instructors to adapt classes and gym sessions for clients with special population needs – in particular older adults, those with disabilities and pre and post-natal women.

The new online learning will make up this short-fall in knowledge which existing level 2 members may have.

REPs Registrar Jean-Ann Marnoch explains: “As part of the consultation process for the new National Occupational Standards, the employers we spoke to told us it was really important for level 2 members to have enough knowledge to allow them to adapt their teaching

to the needs of any occasional clients they may have who fall into the specialist population categories. For example, if a pregnant woman comes along to a class, or an older adult member joins a gym session, they are able to advise them accordingly and adapt their mainstream classes or sessions to allow for their particular needs.

“This is different to taking a class specifically for those with special requirements which would require the member to achieve the specific special population qualification giving them the related additional category on the Register. “

She continues: “All new level 2 qualifications written to meet the new national occupational standards will include this additional content but we wanted to be able

Online upskilling

REPs is compiling a special online piece of learning to allow existing members to bring their qualifications in-line with the new National Occupational Standards.

offer our existing members the chance to improve their knowledge too.

“We’re now working on information and questions that can be completed for free, online via the REPs website, that will allow this, as well as earning members CPD points in the process.

“We know that the realities of modern gym usage include members with many, and varied, requirements

and hope this additional information will enable our existing members to better meet the needs of their clients.”

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The REPs Journal 2010;18(September):5-7