Training course FAQs

Do you offer bespoke training?

If you have any queries regarding the training offered or have a bespoke training request, please contact Pirbright Training.

Do you provide discounts?

For various bodies and individuals and for larger volumes and multi-year subscription purchases, courses may be available at reduced rates, please contact Pirbright Training for more information.

How do I apply for a course?

Our eLearning courses are hosted in the cloud using our Absorb LMS (Learning Management System). Please contact Pirbright Training to arrange access and you will be able to purchase online using PayPal or we can raise an invoice.

Do I receive a certificate?

If you achieve a pass mark in any of our eLearning courses you will awarded a certificate of completion which you can download.

How long do I have access to an online course?

Unlimited access is granted for one month.

Are there any system requirements?

The Absorb LMS will display on multiple devices and does not have any specific system requirements. It has a responsive design which runs on screens of all sizes. The following browsers are tested and confirmed to handle Absorb LMS:

• Chrome (Desktop/Tablet/Mobile)
• Edge (Desktop)
• Firefox (Desktop) 
• Safari (macOS/iOS)
• Android (Tablet/Mobile)

How do I apply for an Instructor-led course?

Our science-based instructor-led courses require you to download an application form, completed forms should be emailed to Pirbright Training. Download links are available within the ‘Next Steps’ area of all course pages. For our biosafety and engineering courses, please contact Pirbright Training.

How do I pay for a course?

Once a place on the course has been confirmed, delegates trainees will be issued with an invoice. Please be aware that under certain circumstances a deposit may be required, if so, trainees will be informed at time of course confirmation. Please note, we will only consider refunding this deposit upon proof of inability to attend the course due to ill health or visa denial - official documentation will be required (e.g. doctor's letter, Home Office communication etc).

Do I receive a certificate?

You will awarded a certificate of completion or attendance at the end of the course.

Do you offer accommodation?

For courses with a one week or longer duration, The Pirbright Institute has access to houses within walking distance of site at reasonable cost. Accommodation is offered as a private bedroom with shared bathroom, living area and kitchen. Availability is not guaranteed and must be booked in advance. The facilities include basic equipment and utensils for cooking, or there are several pubs close by that offer evening meals. Alternatively, we can provide details of nearby hotels, however, transfers to and from site would need to be arranged by the trainee.

Are there any English language requirements?

All trainees must have a good level of understanding and communication with the English language. This is to ensure compliance with safety and biosafety procedures and to benefit from the training courses. The requirement is an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with minimum scores of 6.0 in listening, reading, and speaking, and 5.5 in writing. If English is not your first language and you lack formal qualifications, we may request additional evidence, possibly through a video conference to assess your language skills.

Are there any security, safety and biosafety measures in place?

The Pirbright Institute is a secure site, trainees must be registered in advance and produce identification upon arrival each day. Accepted forms of identification include a passport (any nationality), or a UK Drivers licence or a construction skills certificate (CSCS) card. All trainees must be escorted by their host at all times. A letter of acceptance onto a training course will be provided if required, and this may be used to apply for any necessary visas. Where trainees have access to laboratories which operate at BSL3 containment level, they will be expected to adhere to tight biosecurity regulations, including a strict three-day quarantine period and a shower upon exiting the laboratories daily. Further information will be provided.

Do you offer any virtual training?

Please contact Pirbright Training to discuss any virtual training requirements, including webinars.