Trevor
No, The franchises provide sound training within their respective fields.
The Guild of Master Craftesmen is one and there is another highly respected organisation which allows people, on payment of a fee, to place letters after their names this, 'I' believe, gives the perceived impression that a qualification has been awarded when in fact it hasn't.
I withdrew from this organisation because of this practice.. again its a 'me' thing... call it 'principles' if you like.
Derek
Ha ha I have just read your post again... I fell for that one Hook Line and Sinker