NPTA and BPCA Agree New Pest Control Qualification Framework to Support Industry Growth
The National Pest Technicians Association, in collaboration with the British Pest Control Association, has 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.
A Future-Ready Profession
The new framework is designed to create a clear and structured pathway for pest management professionals. It 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.
Kevin Lawrenson, CEO of the NPTA, commented:
“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.”
He added: “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, said:
“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”
Industry Voices Driving Change
The new framework has been shaped directly by the feedback of pest control professionals from every part of the sector. This project demonstrates the power of collective feedback in shaping meaningful change.
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.
The 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 for an informal chat to see if the group is right for you.
A Collaborative Path Forward
The pest control profession is evolving, and the qualification framework is a crucial part of ensuring it is ready for the future.
Through positive collaboration, strong leadership, and the involvement of real pest professionals, the industry is taking a major step towards a future that is more structured, professional, and respected than ever before.
Together, the NPTA, BPCA, and the wider pest control community are laying the foundations for tomorrow’s pest control professionals.
For further information , please contact:
Kevin Lawrenson, CEO, NPTA
📧 kevin@npta.org.uk | 📞 01773 717 716
