Postgraduate Certificate in Osteopathic Education
University of Plymouth validated course in English
Overview Accreditation
Aims
Programme Course details Lecturers Registration FAQ
In the past, osteopathy was often taught through apprenticeships, where a skilled practitioner was considered a good teacher. Today, the academic environment is far more complex, requiring additional skills to teach and train students to 21st-century standards.
Recognizing the need for enhanced didactic and communication skills among osteopathic lecturers, OsEAN initiated a teacher training program.
Overview
Our part-time PGCert Teacher Training Course for Osteopaths is designed to equip current and aspiring educators with essential educational skills and tools. This comprehensive program covers classroom management, lecture planning, assessment strategies, and curriculum design, ensuring you are well-prepared to enhance your students' learning experience.
Participants will delve into various educational theories and learn how to apply them to different teaching modalities. Tailored specifically for osteopaths and non-osteopaths who teach theory subjects, this course is suitable for both beginners and experienced educators, whether you are just starting as a teaching assistant or are an established instructor.
The program focuses on providing practical skills to lecturers from a wide range of skills and experiences, within a framework of academic theory relevant to this level of study in education. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on philosophical and functional professional development at level-7.
The program consists of three modules delivered over four weekends in Amsterdam, providing a flexible and immersive learning experience that fits into your professional schedule. The modules are conducted live, face-to-face. Additionally, there will be an online introduction, and students will have access to the BCNO and the University platforms, including a one-year Microsoft Office license and a university email address.
Accreditation and Certification
- Certification: The program has been officially validated by the University of Plymouth.
- Credits: Participants will earn 30 ECTS or 60 UK credits. The Postgraduate Certificate from UK universities is recognized throughout Europe and serves as an entry-level qualification for a PhD in education.
- Qualification for Examining Roles: The certificate also qualifies holders to be external examiners for universities, subject to specific training programs.
Aims and Objectives
- The course aims at providing educational skills and tools ranging from classroom management and lecture planning to assessment strategies and curriculum design.
- Participants will explore various theories of education and their application into various teaching modalities
Programme of the course
The TTT is practical and focuses on three main pillars:
Module 1: Philosophy & Function
Teaching and learning in Competency-Based Osteopathic Education (Principles of Learning and Teaching)
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES:
- Critically apprise the roles of teachers in health profession education and the contextual factors involved in teaching and learning
- Use learning theories as interpretative keys for ILOs development, Teaching/Learning Activities and assessment strategies
- Design Intended Learning Outcomes through taxonomic frameworks
- Align constructively their own course
ASSESSMENT:
Formative: 3 minute presentation of role of teacher in Healthcare - submission of poster / PowerPoint
Summative 1: Presentation of formative 1 - students to be assess on presentation skills.
Summative 2: Design of a lesson plan within given context of ILOs and assessment strategy.
Module 2: Applied Theory
Docimology: the science behind the assessment
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES:
- Critically apprise the context and properties of summative and formative assessment
- Develop a methodologically strong structured test using different type of items aimed to assess the cognitive component of competence.
- Perform the Classical Item Analysis to assess the quantitative properties of a structured test
- Develop different assessment tools based on a behavioural paradigm to assess the psychomotor and relational components of competence.
- Give a methodologically correct formative feedback in the context of formative assessment
ASSESSMENT
Formative: Building a key features problem test i.e true/ False; MCQ
Summative 1: Building a key features problem test i.e true/ False; MCQ different modality than for formative assessment.
Summative 2: Designing a grading tool / mark sheet for a course of their choosing.
Module 3: Management of theory (Practical Integration) 
Implementation of Learning - TLA
INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES:
- Design clinical cases for Case-Based Learning
- Manage a small group session
- Integrating serious games into osteopathic education
- Design a Team-Based Learning session
- Design a Problem Based Learning session
- Design Medical Humanities session to develop interpersonal skills
- Apply Entrust-able Professional Activities as a framework to guide the clinical tutoring
ASSESSMENT
Formative 1: Teaching Observation by peer with feedback
Summative 2: Teaching Observation by tutor with written feedback provided
Summative 3: Reflective essay on feedback from Observation 1 and 2 with action plan.
Location, dates and fee
| Location | Contactweg 145, 1014 BJ Amsterdam | |
| Dates | 26 & 27 September 2025 | |
| 21 & 22 November 2025 | ||
| 13 & 14 March 2026 | ||
| 05 & 06 June 2026 | ||
| Fees | € 2400,- |
Lecturers
Catherine Clair, D.O. MSc(Ost) PGCertHE
Following her diploma in Osteopathy, Catherine has obtained a Masters degree in Osteopathy from the ESO as well as a Postgraduate certificate in Higher Education from the University of Greenwich and is currently undertaking a Doctorate in Education.
Giacomo Consorti, D.O., MSc., PGCert. in academic and clinical education
Giacomo Consorti is an Italian osteopath, teacher and researcher. Co-founder of the thematic working group Osteopathy Track & Field and coordinator of the Education Department of the Istituto Superiore di Osteopatia (ISO) in Milan. Currently ROI board delegate for Osteopathy Europe (OE) and a member of the OE education committee and ISO delegate to manage relationships with the European Osteopathic Academic Network (OsEAN). In 2012 he began his training in the field of medical pedagogy through the Italian Society of Medical Pedagogy (SIPeM) of which he is currently a member and with whom he collaborates for events of faculty development in some Italian and European universities. He participated in the working groups for the drafting of the Core Competence proposal of the Italian osteopath of the ROI and also participated in the working groups for the drafting of the Core Curriculum proposal developed by the Italian Association of Osteopathy Schools (AISO). He carries out research activities for the ISO research department and in collaboration with COME Collaboration
Course Importance
Elevating Educational Standards: Enhancing Quality and Consistency in Osteopathic Education Across Europe
With this programme, OsEAN looks to focus on standardising the quality of the delivery of education across the network. An important distinction and a significant strengthening of focus for the network, particularly within this landscape of growing regulation. To date, this is considered, across OsEAN, as lacking in the European market. In the long term, the course will also provide appropriate external examiners for quality assurance cycles across the OsEAN network of schools. Unfortunately, with the lack of experienced lecturers with formal teacher training qualifications, this pool of external examiners has been greatly reduced in recent years. This course aims to fill this gap.
Registration
The PGCert Teacher Training Course for Osteopaths can accommodate a maximum of 20 participants to ensure a quality learning experience. If more than 20 candidates apply, a waiting list will be established for future sessions in Vienna. Pre-register now to secure your spot and join a community of dedicated osteopathic educators committed to enhancing their teaching skills and improving students' experience.
Please note that this is only a pre-registration for us to understand who is interested in participating. You will need to complete the official registration through the university platform once it opens. We will inform you as soon as the registration is open and provide you with all the necessary details to complete your enrollment.
Stay tuned for further updates and thank you for your interest in enhancing your teaching skills and improving your students' experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the PGCert Teacher Training Course for Osteopaths?
The PGCert Teacher Training Course for Osteopaths is a part-time program designed to equip current and aspiring osteopathic educators with essential teaching skills, educational theories, and practical tools. It covers classroom management, lecture planning, assessment strategies, and curriculum design.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for individuals involved in teaching osteopathy, whether you are a beginner, teaching assistant, or an experienced educator. It is specifically tailored for osteopaths who wish to enhance their teaching skills and non-osteopaths who teach theory subjects.
What are the benefits of taking this course?
Taking this course will significantly enhance your teaching skills, advancing your career and personal development in the field of osteopathic education. You will gain practical tools and academic frameworks tailored to osteopathy, enabling you to effectively manage classrooms, plan lectures, and design assessments. This not only elevates your teaching abilities but also greatly benefits your students by providing them with a high-quality education. Additionally, the course awards 30 ECTS or 60 UK credits, recognized across Europe, and qualifies you to become an external examiner, contributing to the standardization and quality assurance of osteopathic education within the OsEAN network.
What are the entry requirements for this course?
Applicants should have a background in osteopathy and some teaching experience. However, the course accommodates both beginners and those with extensive teaching experience.
What will I achieve by the end of the course?
Upon completion, participants will earn 30 ECTS or 60 UK credits, recognized throughout Europe. The PGCert qualifies as an entry-level qualification for a PhD in education and allows you to become an external examiner for universities, subject to specific training programs.
What is the structure of the course?
The course is divided into three main modules delivered over four weekends in Amsterdam:
Module 1: Philosophy & Function: Focuses on teaching principles, learning outcomes, and lesson planning.
Module 2: Applied Theory: Covers assessment methods and creating structured tests.
Module 3: Management of Theory (Practical Integration): Emphasizes practical teaching techniques and integration of educational tools.
When does the course start and end?
The course dates are as follows:
26 & 27 September 2025
21 & 22 November 2025
13 & 14 March 2026
05 & 06 June 2026
Is the course accredited?
Yes. The program has been validated/recognised by the University of Plymouth, ensuring the qualification is valid across Europe.
Is the accreditation of the course from a UK university recognized in Europe?
Yes, the accreditation from a UK university is recognized across Europe. Brexit has not affected the academic world, and courses accredited by UK universities continue to be recognized throughout Europe.
How many participants will be in the course?
The program can accommodate a maximum of 20 participants. If more than 20 candidates apply, a waiting list will be established for the Vienna sessions.
Who are the instructors?
The course is taught by experienced lecturers who are osteopaths themselves and specialized in educational training, ensuring you receive relevant and practical insights.
Catherine Clair, D.O., MSc(Ost), PGCertHE: Catherine graduated from the European School of Osteopathy (ESO) and has been actively involved in various roles at the ESO, including teaching, examining, and program coordination. She holds a Masters degree in Osteopathy and a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and is currently undertaking a Doctorate in Education. Catherine has extensive experience as an external examiner and has taught in multiple countries. Her interests lie in integrating various osteopathic approaches to provide the best patient care, with a focus on systemic conditions, osteopathy and dentistry, and the treatment of the elderly.
Giacomo Consorti, D.O., MSc: Giacomo is an Italian osteopath, professor, and researcher, serving as the coordinator of the Education Department at the Istituto Superiore di Osteopatia (ISO) in Milan. He has a background in medical pedagogy and is involved in faculty development at several European universities. Giacomo has participated in developing core competencies and curricula for osteopathy in Italy and conducts research for the ISO. He is also involved with the European Osteopathic Academic Network (OsEAN) and Osteopathy Europe (OE).
How much does the course cost?
The course costs €2400 for all four modules.
How do I apply for the course?
You can apply for the course by clicking the “Register Now” button on the landing page and filling out the application form.
Where is the course held?
The course is held in Amsterdam, with sessions conducted over four weekends, providing a flexible schedule that accommodates your professional commitments.
Is accommodation provided for the duration of the course?
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. However, we will provide a list of recommended hotels and accommodations in Amsterdam to assist you in making your reservations.
Can I work while taking this course?
Yes, the part-time structure of the course is designed to fit into your professional schedule, allowing you to continue working while studying.
What support is available for students?
Students will have access to course materials, support from instructors, and a network of peers. Additionally, any specific needs or questions can be addressed through direct contact with the course administrators.
What happens if I miss a module?
Participants can miss one weekend if they complete the necessary tasks and assessments. Recordings will be provided on the platform but will only be available to the students of that specific group.
Why is this course important?
This course is crucial for standardizing the quality of osteopathic education across Europe, addressing a significant gap in the European market. It focuses on enhancing teaching skills and methodologies to ensure effective and consistent education delivery amidst growing regulations. Additionally, the course aims to create a pool of qualified external examiners for quality assurance cycles, addressing the current shortage of experienced lecturers with formal teacher training qualifications. This initiative is vital for succession planning and maintaining high educational standards within the osteopathic community.