BPCA and NPTA have confirmed the development of a new qualification framework to strengthen career pathways and skills development across the pest management industry.
The announcement follows extensive engagement with professionals across the sector which has helped provide valuable insights and ensuring the new structure reflects the needs of the pest control community.
The new framework will include:
- Level 3 Certificate in General Pest Management
- Level 3 Award/Certificate in Bird Management
- Level 3 Award/Certificate in Wildlife Management
In addition, new Level 2 qualifications focused on pesticide application (covering rodenticides and insecticides) pending consultation will also be developed in consultation with wider industry stakeholders which helps create a clear level 2 pathway which adds value and helps professionalise the industry.
The new framework is designed to create a clear and structured pathway for pest management professionals.
Kevin Lawrenson, NPTA chief executive, said the new framework will not only raise standards across the sector but also support the long-term goal of attracting and developing the next generation of pest controllers, aligning with the wider ambitions set out in the NPTA’s 5<25 strategy.
Mr Lawrenson said: “This is a major step forward for our profession.
“The new framework reflects the knowledge, skills, and high standards that the modern industry demands. It also creates a clear path for new entrants which the NPTA was keen to include to ensure we can attract, train, and retain the next generation of pest professionals.
“We are proud to have championed the views of our members throughout this process and to be working collaboratively with BPCA, RSPH, and other stakeholders to deliver lasting progress for our sector.”
Jenni Peprell, the Royal Society for Public Health’s director of qualifications, added: “We’re delighted to be supporting the pest management industry to develop this exciting new qualification framework. The majority of the areas of the public health workforce that we work with are facing real issues around workforce recruitment and retention.
“We know that educational pathways are vital part of the puzzle in addressing these issues, attracting people to these sectors, helping them to understand the different routes available to them and to access the training that helps them to progress and achieve their aspirations. We look forward to working with partners from across the industry to build a pathway that is clear, inclusive and accessible to all.”
The next phase of the work will involve detailed qualification development through working groups comprising representatives from the two trade associations, pest control companies, RSPH, and wider stakeholders.
BPCA will lead the coordination of the working groups, supported by clear Terms of Reference, and the NPTA will continue to play a proactive role to ensure that the views of members particularly from small and medium-sized businesses remain a key part of this process.
Get involved – Level 3 Certificate Working Group
BPCA is seeking volunteers from across the pest control industry to join the BPCA working group for the Level 3 Certificate in Pest Management.
Stakeholders will include RSPH, NPTA, and pest management companies.
If you’re interested in getting involved with the General Certificate or the Bird and Wildlife Management specialist qualifications, contact Karen Dawes at BPCA for an informal chat to see if the group is right for you.