In order to complete the apprenticeship we require evidence that you have understood and documented your learning in the classroom and that you are clinically competent and safe to practice. Below are the minimum requirements to complete the apprenticeship although we also set informal tasks during the course contact time to ascertain if you are absorbing the teachings and not losing confidence or feeling overwhelmed.
1. Evidence of a portfolio (pass/fail)
Throughout the training we ask that you produce a self-reflective portfolio to demonstrate your understanding of the theory and philosophy of Five-Element acupuncture and the practical information needed to practice. The portfolio must be handed in at the beginning of Level 3. Your mentor will guide you throughout the apprenticeship to ensure your portfolio is adequate to pass.
2. A pass (75%) in point location exams (Levels 2 & 3)
You must pass 2 ‘on-book’ and 2 ‘off-book’ point location exams that take place at the beginning and end of both Levels 2 and 3.
3. A pass (pass/fail) in safe needling/moxa
On day 6 of Level 2 we assess that you are safe and competent in the use of moxa (the burning of a herb on skin) and the safe insertion and disposal of an acupuncture needle.
4. “First Aid” training certificate
We require you attend a one-day “First Aid Training Course” and provide us with a copy of your certificate no later than the first day of Level 2.
5. 35 supervised treatments with our approved mentors
You must collect evidence of 35 supervised treatments before “permission to practice” is awarded and for successful completion of the apprenticeship.
Should you not meet the requirements to complete the training within the given time structure, there are further opportunities to meet the requirements where a fee will be charged (cost on request).
“The training exceeded all expectations. The teaching was delivered clearly and passionately, with great humility and authenticity. The mix of theory and practical work was incredibly helpful and well structured. The setting is positively luxurious, which allowed me to devote my energy into learning, without having to worry about creature comforts or when the next meal was going to be. I am hugely grateful to you, Johnny, Caroline, Christophe and Giles for providing such a loving and warm space for learning and building a community.”
Joo Teo –October 2016
Qualification
We do not offer any formal qualification. After successful completion of the Foundation Intensive, the apprentice will be given a ‘permission to practice’ certificate that will entitle the apprentice to apply for professional insurance in the UK and register with their local authority as an acupuncturist.
Regulation
The ‘Apprenticeship in Five-Element Acupuncture’ certificate is a private arrangement between the provider (Gerad Kite Ltd/LIFEA) and the apprentice. We are not affiliated and regulated by any outside organisation. All apprentices must take full responsibility for their own progression of study and experience and keep abreast of any changes in statutory regulation in the future.
There is no statutory regulation of acupuncture in the UK, but many non-medical acupuncture practitioners are required to register with their local authority. This is because of the risk of blood-borne infections from piercing the skin with acupuncture needles. The same rules also cover tattooing and body piercing. The local authority must also ensure it has bylaws that govern the cleanliness of the acupuncture premises, practitioners, instruments, materials and equipment.
Voluntary Regulation
Apprentices who successfully complete the training are offered the opportunity to become a member of the Association of Five-Element Acupuncturists (AFEA) – www.afea.co.uk. AFEA is a self-regulating professional organisation that promotes the work of practitioners taught in this tradition and ensures the highest standards of practice are maintained. There are a number of other acupuncture organisations in the UK that practitioners can join if they hold certain qualifications and agree to work according to certain codes of practice. The ‘Apprenticeship in Five-Element Acupuncture’ does not give automatic entry to any of these other organisations, however should you wish to join one of them – an independent application must be made and they will each provide the requirements for membership that may or may not require further study.