ARCS Competency Portfolio
The ARCS Competency Portfolio is designed to provide a flexible training framework for HFEA-licensed centres to deliver externally-assessed training for their support staff.
Three core modules are compulsory for all those choosing to undertake the ARCS modular training. These core modules cover key underpinning knowledge required as a member of the multidisciplinary team within a licensed centre. Activities are designed to give the candidate a sound base on which to build their professional practice.
Portfolio Overview
Within the modules, the activities are designed to give the candidate a sound base on which to build their professional practice. The balance between taught and self-directed learning will be set by the supervisor in line with the candidate’s existing knowledge and aptitude.
In each module, the candidate is invited to use a range of methods to demonstrate their understanding, such as diagrams, tables, bullet point lists or discussions with their supervisor. Use of reflective learning, case studies, participation in or observation of activities such as consultations or treatment events and undertaking practical tasks can all contribute to a rounded learning experience to meet the candidate’s training needs.
Upon completion of the three core modules, candidates and their employers can “pick and mix” from the task based modules as required. A summary of each module can be found in the ARCS Competency module summary.
Modules Available
Core Knowledge themed units:
Cost £500 for all three mandatory core units
Module 1: Introduction to Laboratory Practice in the HFEA-Licensed Reproductive Science Laboratory
Module 2: Principles and Organisation of Services in the HFEA-Licensed Fertility Clinic – for Assistants
Module 3. Reproductive Science – Human Body Systems
Additional task-based units:
Cost £175 for each individual unit
Module 4: Procedures for Witnessing in the HFEA Licensed Fertility Clinic
Module 5: Monitor & maintain the cryopreservation facility in the HFEA-licensed Fertility Clinic
Module 6: Identify & instruct individuals providing semen samples in the HFEA-Licensed Fertility Clinic
Module 7: Check documentation of consent in the HFEA-Licensed Fertility Clinic
Module 8: Check documentation of test results
Module 9: Semen assessment in the context of the HFEA Licensed Fertility Clinic
Module 10: Prepare culture systems for gametes & embryos
Module 11: Prepare documents for the transport of gametes & embryos to and from other clinics
Module 12: Monitor air quality in the HFEA-Licensed Fertility Clinic
Entry Requirements
Both candidates completing the modules and their supervisor must be registered members of ARCS.
Candidates will require a minimum academic achievement at A level (including at least one science A level) or relevant level 3 vocational qualifications in healthcare science and some relevant experience of working in healthcare science.
Please refer to the ARCS Workforce recommendations which provides professionally-agreed guidance on the academic requirements and employment banding for the roles and responsibilities for laboratory tasks within the HFEA-licensed clinic. For examples to show curriculum guidance and the assessment requirement in core modules please read here and visit our FAQs.
For more information regarding module costs and the rules and regulations please see the ARCS Competency Portfolio Policy.
Competency Portfolio Stories
