Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Accept all cookies Reject all non-essential cookies Find out more

Licence holder courses provided by Royal Veterinary College

The licence holder courses provided by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. The courses are designed and written by NVSs, NACWOs and NTCOs with extensive experience in laboratory animal welfare and care. The RVC provides PIL A, B and C, training for rodents, ferret, guinea pig, hamster and large animals, and PPL holder training.

PIL holder training

Course structure

The PIL course is delivered online via Microsoft Teams. Pre-course study is available two weeks in advance with RVC trainers available to support pre-course learning. The course is a combination of training videos and live online teaching sessions.

Handling and practicals

Handling and practicals take place after the theoretical training. Rodent practical sessions take place at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in Camden. Large animal handling takes place at the Hawkshead Campus in Potters Bar – Hertfordshire. Assessments are carried out on the same day.

Assessments

Online, invigilated closed book exams.

PPL holder training

Course structure

The PPL course is delivered over two days online. It is taught as a combination of self-study and live online teaching sessions.

Assessments

Invigilated closed-book exam. This is followed by an open-book assignment (3-week completion window) in which students are required critique a project licence.

Further information

Read further information on the RVC website

Course dates

  • 21 July 2026: PIL A, B & C - large animals
  • 28 July 2026: PIL A, B & C - rodents

How to register and pay for your course

You will require a Purchase Order (PO) number to pay for the course. If you have any questions or require a quote to generate the PO please contact training@bms.ox.ac.uk.

Complete the RVC online application form

For NTCO details, add NTCO name: NTCO Oxford; NTCO email: NTCO@bms.ox.ac.uk


For sponsor details, add sponsor name: Training Oxford: sponsor email: training@bms.ox.ac.uk, sponsor position: training admin

Contact

If you have any question or need any help filling in this application please contact training@bms.ox.ac.uk.

On this page

In this section