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Duration 1 Days 6 CPD hours This course is intended for To gain the most from attending this course you should possess the following incoming skills: Basic knowledge of programming concepts and syntax in Python. Familiarity with common data formats such as CSV, JSON, and XML. Experience using command-line interfaces and basic text editing tools. Understanding of basic machine learning concepts and algorithms. Overview Working in an interactive learning environment, led by our engaging expert, you will: Gain a solid understanding of prompt engineering concepts and their applications in software development and AI-driven solutions. Master the techniques for preprocessing and cleaning text data to ensure high-quality inputs for AI models like GPT-4. Develop expertise in GPT-4 tokenization, input formatting, and controlling model behavior for various tasks and requirements. Acquire the ability to design, optimize, and test prompts effectively, catering to diverse business applications and use cases. Learn advanced prompt engineering techniques, such as conditional text generation and multi-turn conversations, to create more sophisticated AI solutions. Practice creating prompts to generate, run, and test code in a chosen programming language using GPT-4 and OpenAI Codex. Understand the ethical implications and best practices in responsible AI deployment, ensuring fair and unbiased AI applications in software development. Prompt Engineering offers coders and software developers a competitive edge by empowering them to develop more effective and efficient AI-driven solutions in their projects. By harnessing the capabilities of cutting-edge AI models like GPT-4, coders can automate repetitive tasks, enhance natural language understanding, and even generate code suggestions, boosting productivity and creativity. In addition, mastering prompt engineering can contribute to improved job security, as professionals with these in-demand skills are highly sought after in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Quick Start to Prompt Engineering for Coders and Software Developers is a one day course designed to get you quickly up and running with the prompting skills required to out AI to work for you in your development efforts. Guided by our AI expert, you?ll explore key topics such as text preprocessing, data cleansing, GPT-4 tokenization, input formatting, prompt design, and optimization, as well as ethical considerations in prompt engineering. In the hands-on labs you?ll explore tasks such as formatting inputs for GPT-4, designing and optimizing prompts for business applications, and implementing multi-turn conversations with AI. You?ll work with innovative tools like the OpenAI API, OpenAI Codex, and OpenAI Playground, enhancing your learning experience while preparing you for integrating prompt engineering into your professional toolkit. By the end of this immersive course, you?ll have the skills necessary to effectively use prompt engineering in your software development projects. You'll be able to design, optimize, and test prompts for various business tasks, integrate GPT-4 with other software platforms, and address ethical concerns in AI deployment. Introduction to Prompt Engineering Overview of prompt engineering and its importance in AI applications Major applications of prompt engineering in business Common challenges faced in prompt engineering Overview of GPT-4 and its role in prompt engineering Key terminology and concepts in prompt engineering Getting Things Ready: Text Preprocessing and Data Cleansing Importance of data preprocessing in prompt engineering Techniques for text cleaning and normalization Tokenization and n-grams Stop word removal and stemming Regular expressions and pattern matching GPT-4 Tokenization and Input Formatting GPT-4 tokenization and its role in prompt engineering Understanding and formatting GPT-4 inputs Context windows and token limits Controlling response length and quality Techniques for handling out-of-vocabulary tokens Prompt Design and Optimization Master the skills to design, optimize, and test prompts for various business tasks. Designing effective prompts for different tasks Techniques for prompt optimization GPT-4 system and user parameters for controlling behavior Importance of prompt testing and iteration Best practices for prompt engineering in business applications Advanced Techniques and Tools in Prompt Engineering Learn advanced techniques and tools for prompt engineering and their integration in business applications. Conditional text generation with GPT-4 Techniques for handling multi-turn conversations Overview of tools for prompt engineering: OpenAI API, OpenAI Codex, and OpenAI Playground Integration of GPT-4 with other software platforms and tools Monitoring and maintaining prompt performance Code Generation and Testing with Prompt Engineering Develop the skills to generate, integrate, and test AI-generated code effectively, enhancing productivity and creativity in software development projects. Introduction to code generation with AI models like GPT-4 Designing prompts for code generation across programming languages Techniques for specifying requirements and constraints in prompts Generating and interpreting code snippets using AI-driven solutions Integrating generated code into existing projects and codebases Best practices for testing and validating AI-generated code Ethics and Responsible AI Understand the ethical implications of prompt engineering and the importance of responsible AI deployment in business. Ethical considerations in prompt engineering Bias in AI systems and its impact on prompt engineering Techniques to minimize bias and ensure fairness Best practices for responsible AI deployment in business applications Monitoring and addressing ethical concerns in prompt engineering

Crystal Healing Practitioner Course Overview Are you looking to begin your crystal healing career or want to develop more advanced skills in crystal healing? Then this crystal healing practitioner online course will set you up with a solid foundation to become a confident crystal healer and help you to develop your expertise in crystal healing. This crystal healing practitioner online course is accredited by the CPD UK & IPHM. CPD is globally recognised by employers, professional organisations and academic intuitions, thus a certificate from CPD Certification Service creates value towards your professional goal and achievement. CPD certified certificates are accepted by thousands of professional bodies and government regulators here in the UK and around the world. Whether you are self-taught and you want to fill in the gaps for better efficiency and productivity, this crystal healing practitioner online course will set you up with a solid foundation to become a confident crystal healer and develop more advanced skills. Gain the essential skills and knowledge you need to propel your career forward as a crystal healer. The crystal healing practitioner online course will set you up with the appropriate skills and experience needed for the job and is ideal for both beginners and those currently working as a crystal healer. This comprehensive crystal healing practitioner online course is the perfect way to kickstart your career in the field of crystal healing. This crystal healing practitioner online course will give you a competitive advantage in your career, making you stand out from all other applicants and employees. If you're interested in working as a crystal healer or want to learn more skills on crystal healing but unsure of where to start, then this crystal healing practitioner online course will set you up with a solid foundation to become a confident crystal healer and develop more advanced skills. As one of the leading course providers and most renowned e-learning specialists online, we're dedicated to giving you the best educational experience possible. This crystal healing practitioner online course is crafted by industry expert, to enable you to learn quickly and efficiently, and at your own pace and convenience. Who should take this course? This comprehensive crystal healing practitioner online course is suitable for anyone looking to improve their job prospects or aspiring to accelerate their career in this sector and want to gain in-depth knowledge of crystal healing. Entry Requirement There are no academic entry requirements for this crystal healing practitioner online course, and it is open to students of all academic backgrounds. As long as you are aged seventeen or over and have a basic grasp of English, numeracy and ICT, you will be eligible to enrol. Career path This crystal healing practitioner online course opens a brand new door for you to enter the relevant job market and also provides you with the chance to accumulate in-depth knowledge at the side of needed skills to become flourishing in no time. You will also be able to add your new skills to your CV, enhance your career and become more competitive in your chosen industry. Course Curriculum Introduction to Crystal Healing Programme Overview Introduction to Crystal Healing Minerals, Crystals and Gemstones Introduction to Aura, Chakras and Kundalini Basics of Crystal Healing Meditation for Aura, Chakra and Kundalini Cleansing and Energizing Grounding Centering Cleansing the Crystals Energizing the Crystals Programming the Crystals Storing the Crystals Crystal Shapes and their Uses Crystal Colors and their Uses Crystal Placement Practical Crystal Healing Techniques Wearing and Carrying Crystals Crystal Décor Crystal First-Aid Kits Crystal Meditation Healing Crystal Circles Crystal Grids and Sets Crystal Pendulum Dowsing Zodiac Stones and Birthstones Making Crystal Elixirs and Gem Waters Making Crystal Healing Oils Making Crystal Healing Creams and Ointments Crystal Healing for Chakras and Kundalini Crystal Healing for Root Chakra Crystal Healing for Sacral Chakra Crystal Healing for Solar Plexus Chakra Crystal Healing for Heart Chakra Crystal Healing for Third Eye Chakra Crystal Healing for Crown Chakra Professional, Ethical, and Legal Issues Spiritual Life Coaching Professional, Ethical, and Legal Issues Recognised Accreditation CPD Certification Service This course is accredited by continuing professional development (CPD). CPD UK is globally recognised by employers, professional organisations, and academic institutions, thus a certificate from CPD Certification Service creates value towards your professional goal and achievement. CPD certificates are accepted by thousands of professional bodies and government regulators here in the UK and around the world. Many organisations look for employees with CPD requirements, which means, that by doing this course, you would be a potential candidate in your respective field. Certificate of Achievement Certificate of Achievement from Lead Academy After successfully passing the MCQ exam you will be eligible to order your certificate of achievement as proof of your new skill. The certificate of achievement is an official credential that confirms that you successfully finished a course with Lead Academy. Certificate can be obtained in PDF version at a cost of £12, and there is an additional fee to obtain a printed copy certificate which is £35. FAQs Is Cpd a Recognised Qualification in the UK? CPD is globally recognised by employers, professional organisations and academic intuitions, thus a certificate from CPD Certification Service creates value towards your professional goal and achievement. CPD-certified certificates are accepted by thousands of professional bodies and government regulators here in the UK and around the world. Are Qls Courses Recognised? Although QLS courses are not subject to Ofqual regulation, they must adhere to an extremely high level that is set and regulated independently across the globe. A course that has been approved by the Quality Licence Scheme simply indicates that it has been examined and evaluated in terms of quality and fulfils the predetermined quality standards. When Will I Receive My Certificate? For CPD accredited PDF certificate it will take 24 hours, however for the hardcopy CPD certificate takes 5-7 business days and for the Quality License Scheme certificate it will take 7-9 business days. Can I Pay by Invoice? Yes, you can pay via Invoice or Purchase Order, please contact us at info@lead-academy.org for invoice payment. Can I Pay via Instalment? Yes, you can pay via instalments at checkout. How to Take Online Classes From Home? Our platform provides easy and comfortable access for all learners; all you need is a stable internet connection and a device such as a laptop, desktop PC, tablet, or mobile phone. The learning site is accessible 24/7, allowing you to take the course at your own pace while relaxing in the privacy of your home or workplace. Does Age Matter in Online Learning? No, there is no age limit for online learning. Online learning is accessible to people of all ages and requires no age-specific criteria to pursue a course of interest. As opposed to degrees pursued at university, online courses are designed to break the barriers of age limitation that aim to limit the learner's ability to learn new things, diversify their skills, and expand their horizons. When I Will Get the Login Details for My Course? After successfully purchasing the course, you will receive an email within 24 hours with the login details of your course. Kindly check your inbox, junk or spam folder, or you can contact our client success team via info@lead-academy.org

Description Iridology Diploma  Iridology is an alternative science that may not be as familiar as other alternative sciences, but it is fascinating. Iridology is also sometimes called 'iridiagnosis' or 'iridodiagnosis'. The practice involves assessing a patient's iris in detail to diagnose any past, present, or even future issues that may affect the person's health. With the information gathered through the assessment, patients can explore preventive measures to help them control and counter symptoms well before the disease begins. Elearncollege Iridology Diploma course is aimed at teaching students everything they need to know about Iridology. The Iridology Diploma course is divided into three sections: - Background and Introduction. - The Processes and Methods in Iridology. - How to Start Your Own Business in the Practice and How to Run It. Students will learn about Iridology, why it's practised, patient treatment protocols, and how to establish and maintain a business. Iridology is a powerful naturopathic diagnostic technique. The diagnosis based on the iris study is fascinating and invaluable, a technique that can be used for self-diagnosis and to diagnose patients in any alternative medicine approach. It is even more helpful in the field of holistic nutritional medicine. The iris offers a vivid vitalistic and naturopathic diagnostic vision that enables us to perceive poisons and energy in any body region. This kind of diagnosis is beneficial in focusing on and monitoring any treatment. The practice is entirely non-invasive. It has proven to be completely accurate over and over again. The technique involves deeply analysing the human iris's exposed nerve endings and eye colour. The colours of the iris and the several structural variations seen on different irises reflect a person's uniqueness as determined by their genetics. The Iridology Diploma course teaches you how to study the iris to understand signals that might indicate a patient's bodily composition and genetic vulnerability to specific medical illnesses. You can also tell from the iris whether or not patients' tissues and organs have toxins, are under stress, or are inflamed. Iridology is an excellent tool for practitioners and students who want to deliver individualised care to their patients by teaching them about their inherent weaknesses and strengths. Iridology is unique and especially suited to preventive medicine because it allows personalised programmes on cleansing and building health. Through the course, you will learn skills to assess, teach, and mentor the self-healing process. You will discover how techniques like regeneration, transformation, and purification, can bring clarity, light, and other positive changes to the iris. You can experience the many benefits that natural healing brings and become a guide to others who can inspire them. The alternative medical practice of Iridology is also helpful in understanding the effect of stress, habits, and lifestyle on a person's weaknesses and strengths. These interact and lead to specific issues affecting mind, body, and health dynamics. These adverse effects can be reversed through iridology and lifestyle and diet interventions by a well-informed individual. What you will learn   1: Scope of Iridology  2: Charts and Zones  3: Anatomy, Density and Shading  4: Terminology  5: Constitutional Types in Iridology  6: Iris Structure and Physical Strength  7: Lacunae  8: Collarette and Its Digestive Signs  9: Contraction Furrows and Pupil Signs  Course Outcomes After completing the course, you will receive a diploma certificate and an academic transcript from Elearn college. Assessment Each unit concludes with a multiple-choice examination. This exercise will help you recall the major aspects covered in the unit and help you ensure that you have not missed anything important in the unit. The results are readily available, which will help you see your mistakes and look at the topic once again. If the result is satisfactory, it is a green light for you to proceed to the next chapter. Accreditation Elearn College is a registered Ed-tech company under the UK Register of Learning( Ref No:10062668). After completing a course, you will be able to download the certificate and the transcript of the course from the website. For the learners who require a hard copy of the certificate and transcript, we will post it for them for an additional charge.

Diploma Course in Practioner Crystal Therapy. This is a great learning journey into the world of Crystals and how Crystals, through their own growth process, can mirror our human existence and offer healing in ways we never thought possible. The course will give you insights into how Crystals and their energy can Heal the human anatomy both physically, emotionally and ethereally. This course will allow you to engage with the energy of the Crystal and therefore bring that energy forth to help with the healing process of self and others.

Course Overview Get proper nursing assistant training and help people recover from illness, in one of the noblest professions out there. The skills you gain from this Nursing Assistant Diploma course will help you take care of patients and it'll also help you if one of your family members or loved one falls ill and you want to take better care of them. In the course, you'll learn how to take care of patients with special needs, infection and infection control, caring for patients with common health problems, how to make patients comfortable, emergency care and many more. The knowledge you will gain from this course will give you an edge if you are looking to start a career in the healthcare sector. This course gives you valuable practical skills that'll benefit you throughout your life. Enrol today and boost your career prospects with an accredited online qualification.  What You Will Learn This is one of the best courses on nursing you'll find, and it'll teach you everything that you need to know about this amazing topic. Communication, Human Growth and Development Immune System Terms and Terminology Caring for Patients with Special Needs Infection and Infection Control Caring for patients with Common Health Problems Assisting with Safety & Comfort, Nutrition & Fluids, Exercise & Activity and Emergency Care Personal Cleansing and Dressing Cleaning procedures, and many more Why You Should Choose This Course From iStudy Study at your own pace Full Tutor support on weekdays (Monday - Friday) Fully compatible with any device Free Printable PDF Certificate immediately after completion No prior qualifications are needed to take this course No hidden fees or exam charges CPD Qualification Standards and IAO accredited Efficient exam system, assessment, and instant results Our customer support team is always ready to help you Gain professional skills and better earning potential Certification After completing the course you'll receive a free printable CPD accredited PDF certificate. Hard Copy certificate is also available, and you can get one for just £9! Accreditation This course is accredited by Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is a recognised independent accreditation service. Enrol today and learn something new with iStudy. You'll find a full breakdown of the course curriculum down below, take a look and see just how much this course offers. We're sure you'll be satisfied with this course.

Course Overview Get proper nursing assistant training and help people recover from illness, in one of the noblest professions out there. The skills you gain from this Nursing Assistant Diploma course will help you take care of patients and it'll also help you if one of your family members or loved one falls ill and you want to take better care of them. In the course, you'll learn how to take care of patients with special needs, infection and infection control, caring for patients with common health problems, how to make patients comfortable, emergency care and many more. The knowledge you will gain from this course will give you an edge if you are looking to start a career in the healthcare sector. This course gives you valuable practical skills that'll benefit you throughout your life. Enrol today and boost your career prospects with an accredited online qualification.  What You Will Learn This is one of the best courses on nursing you'll find, and it'll teach you everything that you need to know about this amazing topic. Communication, Human Growth and Development Immune System Terms and Terminology Caring for Patients with Special Needs Infection and Infection Control Caring for patients with Common Health Problems Assisting with Safety & Comfort, Nutrition & Fluids, Exercise & Activity and Emergency Care Personal Cleansing and Dressing Cleaning procedures, and many more Why You Should Choose This Course From iStudy Study at your own pace Full Tutor support on weekdays (Monday - Friday) Fully compatible with any device Free Printable PDF Certificate immediately after completion No prior qualifications are needed to take this course No hidden fees or exam charges CPD Qualification Standards and IAO accredited Efficient exam system, assessment, and instant results Our customer support team is always ready to help you Gain professional skills and better earning potential Certification After completing the course you'll receive a free printable CPD accredited PDF certificate. Hard Copy certificate is also available, and you can get one for just £9! Accreditation This course is accredited by Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is a recognised independent accreditation service. Enrol today and learn something new with iStudy. You'll find a full breakdown of the course curriculum down below, take a look and see just how much this course offers. We're sure you'll be satisfied with this course.

Overview Gain expertise in the beauty industry by learning simple makeup hacks and become a qualified makeup artist, by pursuing the highly effective Cosmetics & Make-Up Artistry course.The complete Cosmetics & Make-Up Artistry course aims to equip you with an expert level understanding of cosmetics and makeup artistry to enhance your beauty skills. You'll learn about trending products, new techniques, and creating glam looks with minimal makeup products. You'll also learn how to transform a simple look into a gorgeous bold one for any occasion.The course is ideal for beginners and experts can discover new ideas as well. Learn the secrets of the beautyindustry by enrolling today! How will I get my certificate? You may have to take a quiz or a written test online during or after the course. After successfully completing the course, you will be eligible for the certificate. Who is this course for? There is no experience or previous qualifications required for enrolment on this Cosmetics & Make-Up Artistry. It is available to all students, of all academic backgrounds. Requirements Our Cosmetics & Make-Up Artistry is fully compatible with PC's, Mac's, Laptop, Tablet and Smartphone devices. This course has been designed to be fully compatible on tablets and smartphones so you can access your course on wifi, 3G or 4G.There is no time limit for completing this course, it can be studied in your own time at your own pace. Career path Having these various qualifications will increase the value in your CV and open you up to multiple sectors such as Business & Management , Admin, Accountancy & Finance, Secretarial & PA, Teaching & Mentoring etc. Course Curriculum 6 sections • 28 lectures • 18:00:00 total length •Makeup Basics I: 01:00:00 •Makeup Basics II: 01:00:00 •Makeup Basics III: 01:00:00 •Makeup Basics IV: 01:00:00 •Makeup Basics V: 01:00:00 •Makeup Supplies: 00:30:00 •Makeup Application Women/Girls: 00:30:00 •Makeup Application Guys: 00:30:00 •Cleansing & Hairstyles: 00:15:00 •Body Products Basics: 01:00:00 •Be Educated On Toxins And Detoxing: 01:00:00 •Using Bath Products: 01:00:00 •Sunless Tanning: 01:00:00 •Body Makeup: 01:00:00 •The Latest In Support Garments: 01:00:00 •How Looking Great Makes You Feel Great: 00:30:00 •Wrapping Up: 00:30:00 •What is a Cosmetic?: 00:15:00 •Cosmetics - From Tradition to Modernity: 00:15:00 •Equipment - Makeup Kits: 00:15:00 •Skin: 00:30:00 •Face: 00:30:00 •Lips: 00:30:00 •Eyes: 00:30:00 •Ten-Step Guide to Perfect Makeup: 00:30:00 •Special Makeup Applications: 00:30:00 •Essential Equipment for the Professional: 00:15:00 •Advanced Makeup Applications: 00:15:00

Elevate your skincare knowledge with our comprehensive course on Skincare and Skin Disease Awareness. From understanding skin structure to crafting personalized routines, delve into the science of skincare, tackle common dermatological conditions, and embrace a holistic approach for healthier, radiant skin. Uncover the secrets of effective skincare, combat aging effects, and gain insights into managing eczema, skin infections, and acne-prone skin. Join us on a journey to nurture your skin with evidence-based practices and unlock the key to lasting skin health. Enroll now for a beautiful and informed skincare experience.

The prevalence of ill health is real. Become an expert practitioner in treating individuals using a truly holistic approach. A MESSAGE FROM THE AUTHOR The great need for practitioners is emphasised today, not only by the prevalence of well-established diseases, but also by the appearance of quite new conditions which are not necessarily regarded as being nutritional illnesses. In fact many students come to Nutritional Therapy after experiencing and their own health problems and seek to help others with similar difficulties. We know that nutrition lies at the very heart of these problems and it is our absolute intention to share that knowledge with you. Every person's nutritional needs differ and our courses teach students to recognise this at the outset - there is no haphazard approach. We are absolutely certain that you will find this a fascinating course as you train to become a practitioner of the highest degree. DR. LAWRENCE PLASKETT Course Duration 3 years Study Hours 3,000 hours Course Content 14 folders Course Fee £1,995 Course Overview The Plaskett Professional Diploma in Nutritional Therapy is the most scientific and advanced practitioner level course that we offer. Nutritional Therapy is a form of therapy that uses food, supplementary nutrients and cleansing procedures to alleviate or prevent chronic health problems and this course will train you to practise as a Nutritional Therapist of the highest degree. You will: Receive a training which is truly holistic in nature Be presented with the unique teachings of Dr. Lawrence Plaskett whose long experience working in the borderlands between nutrition and medicine enables him to offer a synthesis between many fields that are not often brought together: nutrition, pathology, biochemistry, toxicology, pharmacology, cell biology, naturopathy and homoeopathy Develop the professional skills and specific diagnostic insight to be able to apply nutrition to health effectively, a training for successful practice that should be applicable anywhere in the world Be trained to offer help with a wide range of conditions, the majority of which are not necessarily regarded in conventional medicine as being nutritional illnesses. These encompass an extremely wide range of chronic conditions, including most diseases and a vast array of symptoms - physical, emotional, mental - which can frequently be experienced outside the range of conventional medical diagnostic 'labels'. Develop the necessary expertise in nutrition which is often lacking in other fields of complementary or alternative medicine. Any programme of nutritional supplements and diet needs to be matched exactly to individual needs by a well-trained practitioner BREAKDOWN OF THE COURSE SECTIONS The Nutritional Therapy Diploma includes the following 14 folders: FOLDER 1 THE HOLISTIC MODEL OF HEALTH CARE This Folder starts with a suggested programme of study and some simple hints on how to make best use of your study time. It then teaches an understanding of basic principles that underpin your entire grasp of nutrition as a biological process. The naturopathic emphasis is upon freeing the body tissues of toxins and the damaged cell components that drag them down to the chronic level.  The Folder looks closely at the nature of toxins and their sources. It looks at their behaviour and effects when they enter the body, the character and mechanisms of the damage they do and, above all, the mechanisms by which they can be removed and the damage repaired.  These are no flights of fancy, as orthodoxy would often have us believe. Rather they are strongly supported by medical science, as the course material will demonstrate. In order to develop a grasp of these processes they have to be visualized as they really happen, on the cellular level.  A Side Book is included covering the structure and life of the cell. Areas Covered Study skills Looking after the body The Life Force Stopping the rot and starting to recover Movements of toxins within and around the body Our relationship to medical orthodoxy The nature of natural and unnatural chemical toxins The concept of toxin-free food Organic growing and water purification Free radicals and anti-oxidants Routes of toxin entry and elimination Damage caused by toxins lying in the tissues Detoxification The relationship between toxic burden and toxic damage The energy reserve role of fat The lipoproteins of the blood FOLDER 2 MINERALS AT WORK IN NUTRITION - PART 1 The minerals come forward as the strongest contenders for pride of place among the nutrient classes because they are so critically vulnerable to deficiency and imbalance in today’s western world.  “Get the minerals right before anything else” is a penetrating summary of their necessary priority. You will learn how the bulk minerals (those we need in greatest amount) depend upon each other and how the micro minerals cannot fulfil their function correctly without a correct balance of the bulk ones.  This Folder takes “first things first” by laying the soundest possible foundation for the study and management of the bulk metals – sodium, potassium, calcium, with magnesium to follow in Folder 5.  We believe that few course providers deal as thoroughly with this absolute cornerstone of nutrition as we do. The effects of these mineral balances permeate the entire subject of nutrition. You will look at many aspects of the subject that affect health. Areas Covered Composition of the human body Overview of macro minerals Sources of nutritional minerals Biological concentration of minerals Micro minerals as catalysts Toxic minerals Digestion, absorption and storage Mineral/mineral antagonisms Sodium and potassium balance Symptoms of sodium and potassium excess or deficiency The sodium pump Sodium and potassium in foods Potassium administration in therapy Calcium in the human skeleton and teeth Calcium in body fluids Hormonal control of calcium Osteoporosis and disputes over calcium requirements Calcium in foods Calcium “mishandling” Calcium in supplement Side Book: The Chemistry of Nutrition Whilst it is possible to teach nutrition to some degree without studying the chemical nature of the nutrients, it is much better that you have at least a superficial understanding. Folder Two therefore includes a side book on Chemistry for those who are new to the subject. However, no one expects you to become highly informed on chemical structures. Access to the facts and to an explanation is what is important. This side-book will free you, as a future practitioner, from the need to manipulate the nutrients without understanding them as many others try to do. Elements, compounds and molecules Valency Ions, acids and salts Combining proportions and moles Carbon compounds and functional groups Oxidation and reduction Calculating the vitamin or mineral content of supplements FOLDER 3 THE BULK NUTRIENTS – PROTEIN, CARBOHYDRATE, LIPIDS AND ENERGY These nutrients provide both the fuel and the building materials for the body. Orthodox nutrition teaches these topics very thoroughly. As to the structures of the compounds, we teach the same things they do.  However, all three main classes of bulk nutrients have their distinctive “wrinkles” when examined from an alternative viewpoint.  With the proteins this has to do with avoiding excesses and, to some degree eschewing animal sources for naturopathic and other reasons.  With the carbohydrates it involves recognizing at a sensitive level the long-term harm that can be done by free sugars and the crucial importance of blood sugar maintenance and control. Orthodox treatments may claim to do these things but there is a vast difference of emphasis and effect.  Among the lipids the “wrinkles” have to do with intricate management of the balance among the essential fatty acids and the importance of the phospholipids in the diet.  You will also learn about the propensity of fats to form toxins and the need to moderate fat intake. All of these so-called alternative “wrinkles” have weighty scientific support, which you will have explained for you.  The chemical nature of these bulk nutrients is fully presented for those who wish it, with a “faster track” through for those who do not. Areas covered Different kinds of proteins The amino acids in proteins The structure of proteins Proteins in foods The essential amino acids and protein quality Nitrogen balance and protein metabolism Proteins in therapeutic policy The simple sugars and sugar derivatives Di, tri and polysaccharides Transformations of carbohydrate Sugars and starch in diets Blood sugar control Metabolic energy The make-up of fats Different kinds of fatty acids Essentiality of omega 6 and omega 3 Lipids and coronary thrombosis Cholesterol, Inc. blood cholesterol levels Fats in western diets Toxins from fats by chemical damage Lecithin and other phospholipids Quantifying energy – units of measurement Energy content of foods and fuels Human expenditures of energy Basal metabolic rate FOLDER 4 FOODS AND FOOD CLASSES Properties, Composition and Naturopathic Effects The merits and disadvantages of wheat, milk and meat are carefully analysed and exposed from the standpoint of both scientific and also naturopathic considerations.  There will be much here to ponder, whilst the scientific evidence leaves little to doubt. You will look rather exhaustively at the merits, nature and composition of vegetables and fruits, not only as groups but also as sub-groups and down to the individual plants.  You will find yourself in a position, when it comes to prescribing, to be directive when necessary about which individual fruits and vegetables it will be best to use.  The groups of pulses, nuts, seeds, fish, shellfish and other seafood’s, as well as beverages, will be closely examined for their composition and suitability for prescription in treatment diets.  Acidity and alkalinity in foods is carefully examined. This Folder is “all about food” but it is also food for thought from beginning to end. Areas covered The wheat grain and its milled fractions Types of bread Nutritional problems of wheat and wheat allergy Sprouted wheat and wheat grass Barley, oats and rye The composition of milks Milk as infant feed The variety of dairy products Nutritional and health problems associated with milk Milk allergy and intolerance Hidden milk in foods Vegetable mineral content and vitality Eliminatory effect of vegetables Composition of 49 different vegetables Potential hazards of plant foods Composition and nature of pulses, nuts and seeds The composition of different meats Naturopathic negatives associated with meat The composition of different fish types Fish as an omega 3 source Shell fish and crustacea Nutritional problems of tea and coffee The composition of fruits Strongly eliminative properties in fruits Acid and alkali-forming foods Using the food composition tables FOLDER 5 MINERALS AT WORK IN NUTRITION - PART 2 Each and every member of the micro minerals group will prove a fascinating area of study and will face you at times almost with disbelief that such minute amounts of substance can exert such extraordinarily powerful effects upon the way the body works and therefore upon health.  Each micro mineral displays its own particular pattern of effects arising from either deficiency or excess. This is almost like a personal signature of the mineral. These will be learnt now but employed later in diagnosis to help determine the likely patterns of micro mineral imbalances in your patients. The role of all-important magnesium is examined together with the principles of using magnesium in therapy. This element plays a key macro mineral role and exerts decisive control over naturopathic elimination.  Areas covered Iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, iodine, silicon, fluorine, vanadium For each of the microminerals where appropriate: Body content; physiology functions; effects of deficiency or excess; toxicity; factors promoting retention or loss; occurrence in foods; different chemical forms; associated diseases; the use of the appropriate supplements Roles of magnesium in the body Magnesium in foods Effects, diseases and symptoms of magnesium deficiency Naturopathic expectations from magnesium therapy FOLDER 6 THE VITAMINS AT WORK IN NUTRITION The vitamins are mostly micro catalysts just as the micro minerals are. Sixteen of them are the subjects of this Folder.  We first explain their known effects in the body and then go on to set out the ways that they may be used, either for direct therapeutic effect, or in support of other components of nutritional therapy.  As in the cases of all the other nutrients, there will be both scientific and naturopathic evidence presented. Good reference material will be provided. Areas covered For each of the vitamins and vitamin-like substances where appropriate: Body content; precursors; physiology functions; effects of deficiency or excess; toxicity; factors promoting retention or loss; occurrence in foods; different chemical forms; associated diseases; the use of the appropriate supplements. Vitamin A; beta-carotene; Vitamins B: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, B12, folic acid, choline, inositol; Vitamin C, Vitamins D1 and D2; tocopherols (Vitamin E); Vitamin K. FOLDER 7 BOWEL FLORA AND THE MAINTENANCE OF HEALTH It is possible to manage and manipulate the bowel flora – the bacteria that inhabit the intestines – so as to produce optimal benefits to health.  Antibiotics and certain dietary errors appear to work in the opposite direction and encourage a flora that will generate more toxins. This Folder deals with both scientific and naturopathic facts and technique and explains how to harness the potential that resides here for bringing better health or maintaining health. It is a crucially important area of nutritional management. Every case you will treat will need the possible prescription of bowel flora products to be reviewed. The other part of this Folder is about the maintenance of health. We provide a general round-up of this pre-clinical part of the course with an overview of nutritional requirements and wise practice in the design of those diets that may be intended to be “healthy” but not necessarily therapeutic.  It includes examination of the special needs of vulnerable groups. You can expect, of course, to meet patients of all ages and conditions and, often enough, you will be asked merely to provide guidance upon what type of diet will best maintain their health.  It also reviews the production of toxin-free food and the hazards posed by the industrialization of food. Finally, there is an approach to the use of supplements for health maintenance and a discussion of strategies for on-going cleansing and toxin avoidance so as to assist in maintaining good health. Areas covered The naturopathic view of the benefits of bowel flora Effect of diet on the bowel flora The putrefactive bacteria Balancing lactose fermenters with other types Toxic amines Benefits of the acid producing species Negatives associated with antibiotics Breast feeding and the bowel bacteria Bowel flora products Overview of the British diet Nutrient requirements for the population Higher requirements for the health conscious Special needs of children and the elderly Special needs of vegetarians and vegans The requirements of pregnancy and lactation Organic growing Industrial food processing and food additives Maintenance supplements Maintenance cleansing FOLDER 8 DIAGNOSIS This Folder is divided into two parts. The first gives a detailed understanding of the basis of diagnosis, while the second gives direct instruction in performing diagnoses.  These two parts, taken together, comprise a major step in your induction as a naturopathic nutritionist. The induction into technique and approach is an essential step, but even more than that, the moulding of your thought process is so very important.  You have to move into the particular “observer” position, mentally, from which the diagnosis is best carried out. The first part of the Folder both provides the “nuts and bolts” of nutritional diagnosis but it also provides the mental positioning to enable you to carry it out with confidence and expertise.  The diagnosis requires understanding of the “constitution”, defined both naturopathically and genetically. An optional side book covers both the miasms and the Chinese 5 elements in respect of their bearing upon diagnosis within nutritional therapy. Fundamental to the practical aspect is the technique for taking case histories and then interpreting them along combined naturopathic and scientific lines.  This logically leads onto the next stage – treatment – in a rational sequence. This Folder contains five “demonstration” case histories. FOLDER 9 TREATMENT This is in many ways the crux of the whole course.  However, being released into nutritional treatments – with their full power – without having made the most thorough preparation, would be most unwise.  Absolutely every topic that has been covered before is required in one way or another at this point. It is here that the interpretation of the case history becomes translated into a prescription of diet and supplements that is honed in a sensitive way to the patient as an individual.  We outline a number of “levels” of the diagnosis that feed into the treatment decisions. There is a “whole person” level, a “weak organ” level, a “metabolic imbalances” level, a “nutritional deficiencies” level and, finally, the lowest in the hierarchy, a “named diseases” level. We also introduce here the profound concepts of intensity, direction and level as they apply to the very basis of Nutritional Therapy prescriptions. All these contributions must converge to provide the best overall treatment.  The focus at this point is on defining the dietary guidelines and the careful orchestration of the essential minerals and vitamins that are to be used.  However, this is also the point at which various named treatments are considered, including bowel cleansing procedures, bowel flora treatment and some of the contributions towards Candida treatment.  These options are set out here and then developed more in the later Folders of Part Two. Special approaches such as the liver cleanse are also considered here along with amino acid therapy, antioxidant therapy and the anti-inflammatory prescription.  We also provide guidelines on how detailed analysis of the composition of diets, and the design of special diets based on such analysis, can contribute to treatment. This Folder provides the “core” of all this, with various modulations and variations being available from the subsequent Folders for “fine tuning”. FOLDER 10 STUDY OF CASE HISTORIES There is nothing quite like practice where case histories are concerned. To be able to study them with great facility and insight and then discern the routes by which they lead towards exact treatment – that is to be your aim here. The Folder provides the challenge of “interpreting” a number of case histories, with help and with feedback. This is an approach that can lead you towards confidence and competence in this task, which is at the centre of practitioners’ daily work. Approaches and solutions are presented. This Folder gives 11 abridged case histories and 20 fully detailed case histories for analysis by the student, 31 case histories in all. These are selected to provide a variety of different types of treatment situation including some that are special or unusual. FOLDER 11 ADDED OR SPECIAL NUTRIENTS AND HERBS In covering the prescribing of supplement programmes in Folder 9, you will have been focused primarily upon those that rank in orthodox nutrition as “essential nutrients”, particularly minerals and vitamins.  However, Nutritional Therapy is enormously enriched by a wide range of other biochemicals that cannot be classified as “essential”. Life does not stop without them, yet they can be extremely helpful, especially to individuals with compromised health.  These are more often metabolic intermediates than recognised nutrients, but they can be extraordinarily valuable for organ-directed therapy. Many of these involve up-to-the minute discoveries.  We teach about phytonutrients in foods (eg carotenoids, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, isothiocyanates, organic sulphides and curcuminoids) and about the possibilities, when necessary, to provide them in supplement form. Herbs are covered too in their special role of support-therapy to Nutritional Therapy, usually in an organ-directed or system-directed role. Echinacea, silymarin, aloe, ginkgo, bromelain and St John’s Wort are just examples of these herbs.  We also teach the use of herbal combinations for specific purposes. This wide choice of “extra” items is the subject of specific instruction in this Folder. FOLDER 12 TREATING NAMED MEDICAL CONDITIONS - PART 1 Folder 9 makes it plain that, because this is a holistic discipline, the named medical condition is generally low on the hierarchy of treatment criteria.  Although that is generally the case, the extent to which it holds good may depend upon how advanced is the particular disease condition. At all events, the practitioner does need a degree of disease-related training, which is provided in this Folder and the next.  Some 180 different medical conditions or classes of conditions, mostly chronic, are addressed. Special space is provided to cover fully selected topics that are of key importance in an alternative medicine practice, such as obesity, alcoholism, allergies and the menopause.  We also provide you with specific treatment guidance with the proviso that whole-person treatments and organ-system related treatments either take priority or are provided alongside.  Where appropriate some insights are given into the prior allopathic treatments and environmental and social conditions that may cause or exacerbate the listed conditions.  This provides for the patient’s circumstances and lifestyle to be adjusted in rather specifically apt directions. The main categories in this Folder are: circulatory, rheumatic and digestive diseases, along with obesity, alcoholism and immunity states including autoimmunity and allergies.  All the disease conditions addressed are closely studied from the standpoint of orthodox pathology as well as their Nutritional Therapy treatment.  Hence Folders 12 and 13 in their own right amount to a course in the medical science of pathology and this represents a substantial expansion over earlier versions of the course.  These Folders will constitute invaluable reference material for use when you have set up in practice. FOLDER 13 TREATING NAMED MEDICAL CONDITIONS - PART 2 This Folder continues the work started in Folder 12.  Here included are diseases of the nervous system and brain, skin, reproductive system, urinary system, endocrine system, liver/gallbladder, respiratory system, eye, ear, mouth, nose and bone. Also included are psychological and systemic diseases (including ME), infectious diseases and some directly nutritional diseases. The detailed attention to pathology is maintained throughout. During the course of Folders 10-14 inclusive, students undertake no less than 12 cases on their own, covering full data-collection, analysis and interpretation, with prescription of diet and supplements.  Together with the 36 case histories studied in earlier Folders this gives 48 case histories studied FOLDER 14 MONITORING TREATMENT, THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP AND PRACTICE MANAGEMENT Having got the treatment going, there is a need for specific instruction in the on-going task of monitoring the patient’s condition and reacting accordingly with adjustments to the therapy.  Patient and practitioner alike have to be aware that the first prescription is likely to be just the start of a process. Reading the signs of change looms large in this instruction and familiarization. Responding to them is the second part. Here there is a need to understand the terms “intensity” and “direction” in therapy. “Intensity” refers to the degree of healing and naturopathic pressure being applied and “direction” refers to the aims of the particular choice of treatment being applied.  You will learn to distinguish between situations that call only for a change of “level” and those that call upon you to rethink and change “direction” when the patient’s progress levels off as this may then initiate a new burst of healing changes.  Another way to break out from the “plateau” situation is to assess the exact nutrient composition of the whole diet – an action that is too detailed and time-consuming to do with every patient and usually not needed.  A part of the Folder is about drugs, when and when not to encourage their use, and how to manage the drug-dependent patient. You need to acquire at least a passing familiarity with the main classes of prescription drugs, which are explained in this Folder. This Folder also provides information on Laboratory testing procedures that may be recommended to patients. Finally we offer subjects of crucial importance to working practitioners, namely a study of “The Therapeutic Relationship” and “Practice Management – Running The Practice as a Business”. TESTIMONIALS Here's what students have to say about the course Grace Kingswell, Nutritional Therapist UK "I was recommended Plaskett by my own functional medicine practitioner. I knew that if she was recommending it, it would be worthwhile. I wanted a full body overview and not a “match the supplement to the symptom” approach, and that is certainly what the Plaskett Dip;oma in Nutritional Medicine course delivered. I wanted to be qualified to run my own business as a practitioner afterwards, and it is the most complete and highest level course that the Plaskett College offer. My knowledge of naturopathy and nutritional medicine was pretty solid before I started due to personal experience, but I’ve really built on this now and feel confident that I know how to help others. I’ve also learnt a lot more of the biochemistry behind the science too. The study experience was really good, but it’s a lot of self-motivation, and if you don’t have that then it might be touch to finish it, as it’s completely self-driven". Ben C Alberts, Director South African Institute of Behavioural Nutrition South Africa The Plaskett Nutritional Therapy Diploma was one of the most rewarding programmes of my life. Apart from the media hype around healthy living it is only after the completion of a proper programme that one truly start to understand the intricacy of the human body and what healthy living really is. Within the Plaskett programme the combination of nutrition, pure science and a naturopathic view provided me with a completely new perspective on health management. Against a fairly orthodox background it took me some time within the programme to understand the true principles, and once realized fundamentally changed the way I view personal health management. Throughout the programme the support from my tutor was phenomenal with concise and very valued feedback, and certainly at exceptional detail. The course content was of a high standard and must not be underestimated in both volume and complexity. For me personally, the programme delivered immense value and I will recommend it to any of my peers and clients. Diane Brough, Nutritional Therapist Canada When I first started thinking about taking a course in nutrition, I was living in Botswana, in Africa. I was looking for a college that would offer me the support and guidance that is so important for long distance learning. I’m probably one of the college’s longest registered students because my family moved to five different countries during my studies! I am very thankful for the college’s patience and continued support. Plaskett College impressed me with their personal approach to the course and the fact that all modules were composed by Dr. Lawrence Plaskett, a medical research biochemist and the college’s Founder and Principal. I studied the Diploma in Nutritional Medicine because my plan was to have my own practice. I practised at a herbal clinic as a Nutritional Therapist and Iridologist after I completed my diploma, but then decided to study massage therapy, so put my practice aside while at school. I recently established Revitalife Therapeutics and offer massage therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, nutritional therapy and iridology. Vittoria Viglietti, Nutritional Therapist & Founder of Nutriwild Namibia I chose Plaskett College because I really wanted to make a difference where natural medicine was concerned. After losing my father to Cancer, and experiencing malpractice with all the orthodox medicine we followed, this pushed me even more to pursue an in-depth education in nutritional medicine. I chose Plaskett College’s, Nutritional Medicine Course, because I found this to be very informative for anyone interested in perusing a future in the field of Natural medicine and Nutritional Therapy. My studies have been such a memorable journey for me. I started studying just over 2 months, after losing my father. A very difficult time in my life. The course I chose to do with Plaskett would take me 4 years to complete. I am in my 5th year (nearly my 6th year), doing this particular course and I have only experienced encouragement, understanding of my situation and support from the college to continue to complete the course in my time. I could not show more gratitude towards them for this. I did not expect that after losing my father my life would hit lots unforeseen hurdles, causing my study time to suffer greatly. Yet, through all this, Plaskett College only showed me more support and encouragement to persist with my studies.