IFPA therapists are trained to the highest level and the syllabi are benchmarked against the National Occupational Standards for Aromatherapy. We are constantly seeking to improve the standard of education offered by the IFPA schools and often liaise with the RCN and other professional bodies involved in educational matters. New legislation and ecological factors that affect aromatherapy are important issues for consideration and are reflected in the educational program. Aromatherapy is a natural healing modality, and as such all aromatherapists need to have awareness about the impact of essential oil production and its effects on the environment. The IFPA recognises the importance of these issues and has recently introduced an ecological awareness module to the syllabus and CPD requirements.

All IFPA therapists are required to complete 36 hours of CPD over a three year period, of which half must be related to aromatherapy and essential oils. This is to ensure they stay at the forefront of new developments within the therapy, and continue to expand new skills and knowledge that will assist them in building successful practices.

All IFPA accredited schools undergo a 4 yearly inspection in addition to meeting the stringent IFPA requirements for accreditation and two school meetings are held each year to enable schools to express their views.
Education is closely linked with research and both are active in the development of research design, collection and analysis of data, reporting and interpreting results.

Those who have trained with schools not currently accredited by IFPA are welcome to apply for membership; all applications will be considered individually, but the applicant must be prepared to show clear evidence of training and in cases where that training was some time ago, evidence of regular CPD.

If you are considering training as an Aromatherapist please visit our Schools page (http://www.ifparoma.org/html/training_locations.html) to find an establishment near you. Alternately if would like to take your current Aromatherapy training to a higher level or you feel your training meets our stringent requirements, please contact the IFPA to discuss the next step in becoming an IPFA Aromatherapist.

IFPA support the self regulation of Aromatherapy and all our members – current and future - will be eligible for entry on to the national register once it is established.