Training

Details of the 2008 training course are now available. Follow the link "Formal program" below.

NSW Legislation requires researchers and teachers who use animals to be competent in the procedures they perform, or be under the direct supervision of a person competent in the procedure. In addition, they must use the best available scientific and educational techniques. The training and technical ability of researchers and teachers is critical in minimising pain, distress and suffering in the animals they use. The Research Animal Training Scheme (RATS) has been developed to provide researchers and teachers with the underpinning knowledge and practical skills to ensure:

compliance with the legislation
humane animal use
ethical animal use
minimisation of risks associated with the use of animals

The Research Animal Training Scheme consists of:

Online modules. Can be completed at any time
Formal program (including practical modules). Normally offered twice yearly (March and August)
Resource material. CD ROMs and DVDs available from the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library, or for purchase

Assessment

This training program has been designed so that participants are issued with a "Statement of Attendance" for the module/s successfully completed, and participants assessed as "competent" may be issued with a "Statement of Attainment" by TUNRA for related competencies from the national Diploma of Animal Technology (RUV50104) that is recognised throughout Australia .

Online modules (available anytime)

Modules available online are:

Module 1: Introduction to the use of animals in research
Module 3: Animal monitoring, pain management and anaesthesia

Program information and registration form: Download Word or PDF

Formal Program

The full RATS program (Modules 1-6, including practical modules) is normally offered in March and August of every year, depending upon demand. Preference is given to staff/students from the University of Newcastle and Hunter-New England Area Health Service.

Internal
Information for staff and students of the University of Newcastle and Hunter-New England Area Health Service:

Program information (Download Word or PDF ).

Registration form (Download Word or PDF ).

External
Information for other organisations, institutions and individuals: Please see the TUNRA website.

Directions to Training Venues

For information on how to travel to the venues for tutorials and practical sessions, click here.

Resource Material

Resource CD ROMs and DVDs are available from the the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library. They are also available for purchase.

CD Rom "Research Animal Ethics, Welfare and Use". Comprehensive information and notes for the RATS program are available on request (Download Order Form )
DVDs and CD ROMS are available from the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library (for use within the library) or for purchase:

Title	Source
“Principles of aseptic surgery”. DVD.	The University of Newcastle. Download Order form
“Laparotomy in the rat”. DVD.	The University of Newcastle. Download Order form
“Careful how you hold me”. CD Rom	The University of Melbourne: Weblink (Search the catalogue for CD Rom title)
"Pain assessment in the rat". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Pain assessment in the rat". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory animal anaesthesia: Small mammals 1. Rat and Mouse". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory animal anaesthesia: Small mammals 2. Rabbit and Guinea Pig". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory Animal Anaesthesia: Anaesthesia of the Cat and Dog". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink