I see...
So, what would people take the IBCLC for then? I'd thought that this was the official certification for a BFC but it sounds quite different.
Would we summarise as:
- ABM good for distance learning when far from a tutor or not able to get to a tutor?
- LLL good for flexible distance learning and perhaps more for the attachment parenting leaning person?
- NCT good if you want tutored learning and slightly more mainstream (never expected to say that about NCT!!)
- BFN - not sure!
To answer
butterfly's questions:
"What are you looking to do with the training?"
Well. Although I am interested in one to one support I am more interested in campaigning. My main interests are milk banking, Baby Milk Action's - erm - action, and improving the provision of maternity and PN BFing support. I feel that having some proper knowledge gives me a good foundation for this.
"How long do you want to train for?"
Well I work part time, and have two children and do loads of volunteering already so could only spare about 2 hours a week so I don't know how this would work out.
"Can you afford to pay for your course?"
Yes
"When you qualify, will you be looking to be paid for your time?"
It would be nice to think that I could bring in some income but probably from private work. I don't need the money.
"Do you want to work only with breastfeeding women, or meet pregnant women and give them breastfeeding information?"
Both really. I would love to teach younger girls at school too! Meaning catching them well in advance on the bigger picture project.
"Would you like do to a shorter course first to give you an idea of whether you're keen to take it further?"
I'm doing peer support training now. Are there any others?
"Would you like your qualification to be university accreditted? (I don't think that's the right spelling)."
I would require that the training was recognised in such a way as it would have real meaning but only in the context of what I'd be doing. I wouldn't need it to tick the "I have a degree" (or whatever) box.
"Are you happy to be tied to the organisation for a number of years, or would you prefer to pay more and be independant from when you qualify?"
I would prefer to be independent.
Thank you all :). I will read the links but any other thoughts much appreciated :)