Changes to REPS Framework affects Advanced Fitness Instructors
Lifetime has developed the upskilling course to meet the needs of Level 3 Advanced Fitness Instructors (AFIs) who will be affected by changes to the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) framework. The excerpt below from the SkillsActive assessment strategy explains the background to these changes:
"In July 2009, new fitness National Occupational Standards underpinning key roles in the fitness sector were approved. In April 2010 a new REPs structure was launched which no longer included the category of registration of 'Advanced Fitness Instructor'.
SkillsActive, the Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure, Learning and Well-being, as an Ofqual-approved unit and rule of combination submitter for the QCF, has developed a common unit qualification to enable Advanced Fitness Instructors to upskill and register on REPs with the Level 3 Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor Category of Registration."
Lifetime, in response to this change, has developed this accredited bridging course to offer AFIs the opportunity to achieve full Personal Trainer (PT) status.
We are offering three routes to achieve the qualification depending on your level of prior learning:
Conversion of Advanced Fitness Instructor to Personal Trainer Status
Fast track to Conversion of Advanced Fitness Instructor to Personal Trainer Status - Exam only
What does this mean for Advanced Fitness Instructors?
Importantly this DOES NOT change your current status on REPs. You will continue to be recognised at Level 3 as an AFI for as long as you continue to renew your membership and complete the required amount of Continued Professional Development (CPD)points. Equally there is no change in your ability to use the REPs insurance scheme to cover you for personal liability andprofessional indemnity.
The change in the REPs structure has come about from the industry's desire to see upskilling of instructors to full PT status and a need to simplify the framework for the public and other professions. Although not compulsory, upskilling to full PT status is considered a logical next step in CPD for Level 3 Advanced Fitness Instructors. As explained in the article: The new flexible REPs Structure by Jean-Ann Marnoch, REPs' Registrar in the June 2010 edition of REPs Journal:
"While this is not a requirement (i.e. you will not lose your existing Advanced Fitness Instructor status) those wishing to acquire the Level 3 Personal Trainer category of registration will need to obtain the qualification titled Level 3 Award in Conversion of Advanced Fitness Instructor to Personal Trainer Status. Awarding organisations are being encouraged to offer this qualification to their approved training providers to facilitate the up-skilling of advanced fitness instructors."
