Last month, we hosted our first discovery session to introduce our new angling and countryside qualification. Thank you to the schools, education providers and parents who joined us.
In this article, we share the key questions raised during the session, along with the answers that followed.
Q: Will the qualification be available to schools in Wales?
A: Yes. Crossfields Institute has confirmed that the qualification can be delivered to schools in Wales. However, it is not currently recognised by Qualifications Wales and therefore would not be eligible for public funding at this stage.
Q: What are the guided learning hour requirements?
A:
Level 1 can be delivered as an extracurricular activity. Level 2 requires more dedicated staff time.
Q: When will the specification be published?
A: The specification hasn't been fully published yet for competitive reasons, but it's comprehensive and rigorous. It covers environmental science, entomology, water quality, aquatic conservation, civics and legislation - not just fishing skills.
Q: Do we need Fishing for Schools coaches?
A: You can deliver independently, but using trained Fishing for Schools coaches is recommended. Coaches will receive ongoing CPD and training in delivery methods. A coaching weekend is planned to prepare all coaches nationwide.
Q: Can home-schooled children access the qualification?
A: Yes. The programme is flexible and can accommodate individuals or groups of any size. It's suitable for home-educated students, students with EBSA/autism, and those needing alternative provision. During the pilot phase, places will be prioritised for schools and education providers. We expect to open the qualification to home-educated learners in the 2027-8 school year.
Q: Will this have a QAN code and count as a recognised GCSE?
A: The QAN code already exists for the overarching qualification, the level 2 Integrative Education qualification (Award 603/5736/8; Certificate 603/3720/5; Diploma 603/4596/2; Extended Diploma 603/3912/3). The two modules have module numbers (level 1 Introduction to Angling D/651/6541 and level 2 Intermediate Angling Skills F/651/6542)
Q: How much does centre verification cost, and will there be verification required?
A: Centre verification will be required. Final costs are still being confirmed and will be shared with interested schools and education providers shortly. Verification, moderation and standardisation will be led by Fishing for Schools, on behalf of the Countryside Alliance Foundation.
Q: Will Levels 1 & 2 be ready for September 2026?
A: Yes. The handbook is ready, and coaches are trained. We will be working with a small number of schools during the 2026–27 school year as we introduce this new qualification. Pilot schools have been contacted.
Q: When will Level 3 be available?
A: Level 3 will not be available for September 2026, but hopefully September 2027. A pilot with sixth-form students is underway at a school to test delivery and portfolio requirements.
Q: What does a school need to deliver this qualification?
A:
Dedicated staff time for guided learning hours
Level 1: Can be hands-off with pupil responsibility
Level 2: Requires more staff input
No requirement for staff to be proficient anglers (coaches can support)
Q: Are there career links built in?
A: Fishing for Schools will establish links with local universities and land-based colleges to create pathways into agriculture, aquaculture and environmental studies for participating schools.
Q: Can teachers become Fishing for Schools coaches?
A: Yes. Teachers can freelance as coaches to other schools after training.
Q: Who is this qualification for?
A: Primarily secondary students, but flexible. Level 1 might suit mature Year 6 students. No upper age limit—it's a qualification for anyone, including adults. Level 3 will be more suited to further education.
Q: Can students access this through Section 19 exemptions?
A: TBC