GUIDE FOR TRAINEES

IDENTIFY POTENTIAL TRAINING PATHWAYS

Research the role and extensive skill sets that are required to be a professional IC in the industry. See our 'So You Think You Want to be an IC ' doc for more in depth information.
Explore different avenues of IC skills acquisition and training – there’s a lot to learn!
Discover different trainer practitioners: understand their experiences and varying approaches to this work.
Consider what areas are most essential for you to build on your current knowledge and experience level.
Expect transparency on curriculum areas covered by any training. Confirm provisions for accessibility, inclusive learning, and/or financial support, as needed.
Look for published testimonials or seek them out from previous trainees and experienced members of your Bectu/IC community.
Understand whether a given course provides partial or comprehensive training toward working as an IC and whether qualification or certification is offered. Determine what is right for you.

Are there any useful prerequisites that I can cover before I undertake your training?
What are the expected participant outcomes of your course?
Are there multiple specialists delivering content within the programme?
Does your training offer practical modules alongside theory-based discussions?
Does your course cater to different learning styles and access needs? If so, how?
Is the course structured with objective standards and does it offer tangible feedback on my learning practice?
What skills should I walk away with from your course on completion?
How and when will I complete my course? How is this assessed and acknowledged?
If I can pass/fail, what processes are there for re-assessment?
Is the financial commitment a staggered payment or an all inclusive investment? Are there any future costs?
Who can I go to if I have a problem during my training?

As a largely solitary role, expect that you will require best practice feedback, support, and advice on the job from other trusted ICs, throughout your career.
Determine if you require community guidance or need more extensive support including a 1:1 mentorship relationship.
Seeking out a mentor and/or having access to guidance is useful to integrate your skills as you begin to accept work placements.
The IC Branch of Bectu provides options for guidance including the Professional Intimacy Guidance Scheme (PIGS) for early career ICs as well as community discussions on our Discord server which all branch members can access.
‘Mentor’ definitions can vary. Make sure you are clear on what is being offered, especially if it‘s a paid arrangement or voluntary community connection.
If your training includes mentorship: How is the timeframe or cost structured? Does it offer group or individual mentorship options?
Please see Bectu’s information on IC Roles & Terminology to better understand Mentorship, Guidance, and associated considerations such as assisting, shadowing, and covering.

All ICs have a responsibility to continue their learning journey in perpetuity, especially as standards for best practice continue to evolve and advance.
Know your Bectu Rate Card and how to advocate for it. Help build sustainability in this profession and don’t undercut your colleagues!
Ensure you’re up to date with Bectu’s Shooting Intimacy Guidance.
Join the Branch Discord & attend meet-ups: work with trusted colleagues to foster a welcoming network of professional support for yourself and others. This is a great way to hear about opportunities for additional CPD & support, too.
Self-Care & Wellbeing: working as an IC is often emotionally, psychologically, and physically draining. Integrating robust practices for your self-care into your workflow is essential to make this profession sustainable long-term.
Resource Library: maintain a list of reference materials and additional reading to further your practice & explore new ideas. Share with your friends and colleagues!

Membership in the Bectu IC Branch provides community, connection,

learning & job opportunities, and events, as well as a chance to have your voice heard

in the future of Intimacy Coordination in the UK!