Hartpury University has been officially approved as an assessment centre for the prestigious Field Identification Skills Certificate (FISC), awarded by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI).
Widely recognised across the UK’s environmental and ecological sectors, the FISC is considered the industry gold standard for assessing botanical identification skills. As demand for qualified ecologists, conservationists, and environmental consultants grows, holding a FISC is increasingly seen as essential for career progression and employment.
Notably, while the FISC is not a formal qualification on the UK’s Skilled Worker visa list, it significantly improves an international ecologist’s job prospects in the UK and can support their case for a sponsored role. It demonstrates UK-specific, in-demand skills that employers value, making it easier for them to justify sponsorship, especially if combined with a relevant degree such as Hartpury University’s MSc Biodiversity Conservation.
The FISC is an enjoyable experience, consisting of two class-based sessions where candidates identify fresh specimens from across Britain and Ireland. Following this is a field survey where they’ll build a species list. With no pass or fail, the FISC is open to everyone regardless of skill level.
Excitingly, initial slots will be offered to Hartpury University MSc Biodiversity Conservation students at no additional cost.
Dr Wanda McCormick, Head of Animal and Agriculture at Hartpury University said: “We’re delighted to be offering the FISC at Hartpury. Accurate plant identification is at the heart of ecological consultancy, habitat management, and conservation work. Becoming an approved assessment centre allows us to provide professionals and students with an opportunity to benchmark and enhance their field skills, directly supporting career development and environmental best practice.”
The FISC offers an objective and structured assessment, grading candidates on a scale from beginner to advanced (levels 1-7). This provides a transparent measure of ability highly valued by employers and regulatory bodies alike. It also plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with key legislation, such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act and Biodiversity Net Gain regulations.
Hartpury University’s outstanding campus, featuring diverse habitats and modern learning facilities, makes it an ideal location for candidates to demonstrate and hone their botanical skills.
To summarise, the benefits of the FISC include:
- Industry-recognised qualification enhancing employability and progression.
- Objective skill benchmarking to guide professional development.
- Essential competency for ecological surveys, EIAs, and habitat assessments.
- Supports legal compliance and best practice in environmental management.
