The Field Identification Skills Certificate (FISC) is a one-day test that determines your botanical proficiency on a scale from 1 (beginner) to 5 (professional) with 6 being awarded in exceptional cases.

This FISC assessment is a standardised exam designed to assess your botanical ID and field skills. The exam comprises 3 parts - 2 indoor lab tests identifying sample material (10 widespread species and 20 more ‘challenging’ specimens) plus a field visit where we assess your recording skills against a ‘gold standard’ surveyor. We will be looking for evidence of appropriately cautious and precise recording as well as species ID.

The FISC is designed to be challenging but it is still a fun day and a great way to direct future learning and recognise achievement.

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There is a concession rate available for regular volunteers in the environmental sector and students.

A volunteer is defined as a person undertaking regular voluntary activities within the environmental sector but who is not employed in a professional capacity in an ecological and or botanical field. Examples include volunteers undertaking practical conservation activities, recording and survey, mapping, skills and training, leading and co-ordinating events etc.

Anyone claiming a discount based on the above defined categories will need to self-certify by electronically signing a document. Students will be required to provide evidence, for example, a student ID card on the day of the FISC.

If the concession rate is misused, we will unfortunately have to cancel your booking.

Concession rate: £100 + Eventbrite fees

Promo Code at checkout: Concession

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Cancellations up to 2 weeks before the event date will be refunded, minus the non-refundable booking fee. Cancellations at short notice may be eligible for a refund depending on individual circumstances.

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Location: Natural England Office - Red Kite House, Howbery Park, Crowmarsh Gifford
Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BD

The test will start after 10:00 and finish by around 16:00.