This is a new qualification developed by the National Federation of Anglers (NFA) in partnership with N-OCN, the UK’s foremost provider of accreditation services for learning. Angling is a totally inclusive sport that offers no barriers to those wishing to participate and offers an immediate reward to those who go fishing. It is a fun and healthy sport enjoyed by millions of people throughout the UK every year. Anglers not only go fishing to catch fish but also because they enjoy and appreciate the environment in which it takes place.

Richard Caborn MP, Minister for Sport said of the new qualification:
“Angling is an important pastime for young and old alike. It is a sport in which the UK excels on the international stage and it is also a major driver in terms of providing opportunities for young people to participate in what is a hugely enjoyable and rewarding sport which helps to deliver social inclusion. The development of the ‘Introduction to Angling and the Environment OCN’ qualification by the NFA in partnership with N-OCN will play a key role in educating more young people about the sport and will encourage greater participation.”

This course can be delivered to a variety of groups that work with children and young people to provide a qualification which improves both their education and sporting prowess. The course facilitates learning on how to appreciate and respect the environment using the interesting, fun, enjoyable and interactive learning method by way of angling.

Students will learn about the following subjects:
Geography – Water Cycle and the Importance of Water; Weather Patterns, Wind Direction; Air Pressure. Biology – Common Plants and Animals Found Close to the Water Side; Fish Anatomy; Photosynthesis; Food Chain; Pond Life; Fish Identification; Feeding Habits and Fish Handling. Numeracy – Measuring Water Depth; Using Weights to Balance Floats; Line Strength and Test Curves of Rods. Literacy – Course Work and Compilation of Evidence Portfolio; Word Search and Written Assessment Paper.
      
Additional Course Content Includes: Waterside Safety; The Countryside Code; Assembling and Using a Range of Angling Equipment; Bait Identification and Selection.

All these skills enable young people to have an in-depth understanding of their environment and learn how to fish safely and correctly. This course can also assist cross curriculum study and be used as an alternative learning mechanism.

The overall aim of the course is to introduce students to the fundamentals of angling, whilst at the same time helping schools and organisations working with young people to achieve their wider objectives. Most importantly, the majority of children from all social backgrounds can enjoy angling and research shows that learning is improved by taking part in an enjoyable activity.

Staying Safe – angling promotes community cohesion, and can help reduce youth crime, anti-social behaviour, bullying and discrimination. Organisations such as Get Hooked on Fishing, police crime prevention teams and youth services have all successfully used angling as means of engaging with young people.

Enjoying & Achieving – this course helps young people to learn and attain educational standards. It can also contribute to their personal and social development and to their enjoyment of leisure time. Angling is a fun sport undertaken in a healthy environment.

Making a Positive Contribution – angling engages young people in community activity, such as keeping the local pond, river or canal free of litter. It also develops their self-confidence and encourages positive behaviour and relationships.

Achieving Economic Well Being – angling can help young people to become economically active by providing training and employment opportunities both directly and indirectly.

Who can use this course?
The course is available for children and young people aged 10 years of age and above and can be delivered across age bands to help tackle anti-social behaviour. A range of organisations can deliver the course including:
* Schools
* Youth Groups, Scouts, Connexions
* Training Organisations
* Voluntary Groups and Organisations

The course is angling specific and an understanding of angling techniques is required to attain the standard of assessment. Students must undertake a minimum of 20 hours study including both theoretical and practical assessments. This includes:
* 17 hours guided study with continuous course work review
* 1 hour written assessment paper
* 2 hour practical assessment (this must be carried out by a Level 2 Licensed Coach)
Up to 20 students can undertake the course at any one time.

There are three levels of attainment:
Entry Level, Level One, Level Two. Each level a student achieves, earns 2 credits which represents 20 learning hours. A student achieving Level Two is working at the same level required at GCSE grades A-C.

N-OCN accredit the award using an internal verifier for each course to ensure national standards are maintained.

This qualification is not only a great resource for the school, youth group or community programme, but also offers fantastic opportunities for young people to develop new skills. This can assist them in furthering their education or gaining employment in the following areas: Coaching Certificates, Sports Coaches in the Community, Fisheries Management Course in Further and Higher Education Institutions, Journalism, Retail and Sales Opportunities, Manufacturing Industry, Advertising, Work Experience Opportunities and Sports Development.

Contact Julian Taylor, Angling Development Officer for the NFA
Telephone: 0115 9813535 Email: education@nfadirect.com