Frequently Asked Questions

As the embryology training guide is delivered and assessed in-house, participants need to hold a post within a clinical IVF laboratory, be a registered member of ARCS and have a suitably experienced supervisor and the support of the director of the clinic.

The embryology training guide is a flexible training programme that can be started on any date, however trainees will be expected to complete the written and practical training activities after a minimum of 2 years and within 4 years from their official start date.

The embryology training guide can be used as supportive evidence of your practical training and competency, to meet the learning outcomes of the curriculum at clinical scientist level. However, it is important to note that it is not meant to be a stand-alone route to STP equivalence or registration via the Academy of Clinical Scientists (ACS). Details of what is required for these routes to registration can be found under the FAQs relating to “Registration and Equivalence”.

No, the embryology training guide also requires participants to undertake a number of written assignments that enable them to acquire a high standard of academic knowledge within the field of reproductive science.

The embryology training guide can benefit senior embryologists by providing a structured framework for delivering comprehensive training to their trainee embryologists.

On completion of the training programme, participants will receive an ARCS endorsed certificate of completion which can be used as evidence of their training when applying for any embryology job. Furthermore it can be used as evidence of training as part of a submission for state registration.

Absolutely. The embryology training guide has been developed in collaboration with international ARCS members to ensure its accessibility to both national and international fertility centres. The training guide enables all IVF laboratories to invest in their scientific team by ensuring they acquire the high standard of academic knowledge and practical skills expected of a clinical embryologist.

Regulations and more information can be found via this link.

There are a couple of routes you can take

1. STP equivalence via the Academy of Healthcare Science (AHCS)

2. Certificate of attainment from the Association of Clinical Scientists (ACS) – route 2

Note both the route via the AHCS and ACS are suitable routes to obtain state registration and the specific details of each can be found on the corresponding websites. The route you chose will be which one suits you better but note that if you wish to consider HSST in the future then the equivalence to STP may be more aligned with your future career goals.

There is no prescribed timeframe but it is likely that at least 3 years of hands on clinical work and education within the IVF laboratory would be required to achieve the appropriate skills and underpinning knowledge to obtain registration via either route.

There is no absolute requirement for a formal qualification, however the STP equivalence route via the AHCS requires that you are able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge.

No you need to also have an appropriate level of clinical skills and knowledge gained through working in an IVF laboratory, usually for at least 3 years.

Yes, both the AHCS and ACS provide guidance on how to complete the portfolio to aid your application.

Your first port of call is your laboratory manager which should be able to help support you with your training needs. The AHCS and ACS websites also have some brilliant information and you should read this thoroughly to help guide you. If you still do not have an answer to your queries then please contact ARCS and we can see if we can answer your query.

ARCS intend to plan one in the future so please keep an eye out on news and events.

The fee for STP equivalence via the AHCS is currently £450 and the application fee for route 2 via the ACS is £300 (if you are a member of ARCS).

The ARCS Competency Portfolio is a structured training framework for HFEA-licensed fertility centres, designed to help support staff achieve externally assessed, workplace-based competencies. It provides both core knowledge and task-based practical training, building confidence, safety, and professionalism in reproductive science practice.

The portfolio is open to support staff working in HFEA-licensed centres.
Both the candidate and their supervisor must be registered members of ARCS throughout the training period.

Applicants must have:
– A minimum of A-level (including one science subject) or a relevant Level 3 vocational qualification in healthcare science, and
– Relevant experience working in healthcare science.

The portfolio includes:
Three core knowledge modules which are the compulsory modules to be completed before moving to task based modules.
1. Introduction to Laboratory Practice in the HFEA-Licensed Reproductive Science Laboratory
2. Principles and Organisation of Services in the Fertility Clinic
3. Reproductive Science – Human Body Systems

Task-Based Modules (optional):
Modules 4–12 cover specific laboratory and clinical procedures such as witnessing, cryopreservation, semen assessment, documentation checking, and more. Candidates may choose these based on their job role and career goals.

Read the module overview here.

Learning is a blend of supervised activities, self-directed study and practical application in the workplace. Candidates demonstrate understanding through written evidence, reflective learning, diagrams, case studies, or supervisor-led discussions. Learning is tailored by the supervisor to match each candidate’s experience and aptitude.

Core modules should ideally be completed within two years of the official start date. Task-based modules should be completed at a minimum rate of one module per year.
Extensions can be granted if requested in writing with supervisor support and approval from the ARCS Secretariat.

Each submitted module is assessed anonymously by two independent ARCS assessors. Modules receive a pass or fail outcome. Feedback is provided for failed modules or questions, allowing candidates to resubmit them following the assessor’s recommendations.

The successfully completed core modules earn you a formal ARCS Competency Certificate. The certificates clarify that the modules are not academic qualifications, but certified evidence of workplace training.

If you cannot complete modules within the allowed timeframe, you must notify the ARCS Secretariat in writing, with a supporting statement from your supervisor. If you do not contact the Secretariat you may be removed from the register.

Supervisors play a key role in guiding, assessing, and recording a candidate’s progress by approving and sign off for training logs. Supervisors may transcribe candidate discussions as valid evidence to accommodate different learning styles. Any change of supervisor must be approved by the ARCS Secretariat in advance.

When applying, candidates confirm that they wish to register initially for the three core modules and that application payments are non-refundable. Candidates must agree to the regulations of the scheme and uphold the dignity and reputation of the Clinical Embryology profession.

1. Download and complete the ARCS Competency Portfolio Application Form.
2. Ensure your supervisor details and declaration are completed and signed.
3. Email the form to arcs@profileproductions.co.uk.

For module costs, assessment rules, and curriculum guidance, visit the information provided for the ARCS Competency Portfolio section on the ARCS website.

It is good practice to begin CPD as soon as you become an ARCS member and are working in an HFEA or other licensed laboratory.

To ensure that your knowledge and skills remain current, enabling you to deliver the highest standard of care to patients. ARCS CPD aims to work alongside the professional development requirements of the HCPC, who select a sample of those registered for audit. Using the ARCS CPD program will help those selected for audit fulfil the HCPC requirements.

Yes. Please refer to the CPD policy document. CPD is not a requirement for STPs or pre-registration clinical scientists, but it is incorporated into the STP program and could form part of the portfolio of evidence for an application for HCPC registration.

The ARCS CPD scheme operates through an online diary system, where you manage and record activities undertaken, allocate points according to professional body guidance and reflect on the learning experience gained from the activity.

A range of learning activities can be included as long as they serve to keep your professional learning and professional practice up to date. The ARCS CPD points table gives some examples to help. If you can reflect on a training, learning, or service development activity related to your professional role, then you can generally include it in your diary.

Points may be claimed for webinar participation, online courses and networking events relating to your job role.

The Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST) programme is a five-year, doctoral-level pathway that trains experienced Clinical Scientists for consultant-level practice. More info can be found here.

HSST is a demanding five-year programme combining clinical service, research, and doctoral study. Make sure you and your employer can support the required time, supervision, and commitment before applying. Read the guidance for applicants here.

To train an HSST, your clinic must be accredited as a training centre by the National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS). Accreditation ensures the centre can provide appropriate supervision, facilities, and clinical experience in line with the HSST curriculum. Read more information about accreditation here.

HSST is primarily designed for NHS-employed Clinical Scientists, and most training centres are NHS sites. While private sector placements may be possible if the centre meets NSHCS accreditation standards, and can provide the full range of supervision, facilities, and learning opportunities required by the HSST curriculum. More details here.

Applications are made through the National School of Healthcare Science recruitment portal, with support from your employer. Entry is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and readiness for consultant-level training. Applications generally open in May, with interviews taking place in July/August. More details can be found on the NSHCS website.

Trainees remain employed by their NHS organisation. NHS England funds the academic element and a training allowance supports study-related costs.

The allowance supports training costs such as RCPath exam fees, research expenses, travel, accommodation, and service cover during study time. Usage should be agreed locally with your employer.

No. HSSTs are in-service scientists who continue their clinical duties while training. They receive protected study time—typically about one day per week—to complete academic and professional requirements.

The structured training lasts five years, with most trainees taking up to six years to complete all assessments, the doctoral thesis, and RCPath exams. You can find an overview here.

HSST is flexible — there’s a compressed route (if Part 1 RCPath is already achieved) and an extended route (if it’s not). You can choose when to sit Part 1 and 2, but both must be passed before completing the programme.

HSST integrates FRCPath training — your DClinSci thesis satisfies the written component of the FRCPath Part 2. You must still pass both Part 1 and 2 exams to achieve Fellowship. More details about the examinations can be found here.

If your PhD is relevant and completed within the last 10 years, RCPath may accept it instead of the HSST research project. You’ll still complete Module C1 (research proposal and assessment), but won’t need to repeat the research itself. View the approval process here.

Completion doesn’t guarantee a post, but it provides the qualifications and competencies required for consultant-level roles and entry to the Higher Specialist Scientist Register (HSSR).

You can achieve FRCPath through independent practice by completing Part 1 and 2 exams and submitting an appropriate and approved written component for Part 2, demonstrating consultant-level competence.

You can fulfil the written element via one of three routes: a casebook, published papers, or a PhD/DClinSci thesis (if recent and relevant).

HSST Equivalence is a process run by the Academy for Healthcare Science that recognises professionals whose training and experience are equivalent to HSST. Successful applicants can join the Higher Specialist Scientist Register (HSSR). More details about equivalence can be found here.

If you’re interested in supervising an HSST trainee, NSHCS provides guidance on roles, responsibilities, and training requirements for workplace supervisors, research supervisors, and mentors. You can also access training modules and resources to prepare for the role. Read more here.

The aim of the Mentorship Scheme is to provide both pastoral and professional support to members of the reproductive science community. Members are paired with peers from a similar background and expertise to allow for sharing of experience, support and professional advice for career progression and mobility. Time spent on the mentorship scheme is recognised by the CPD Committee. Please note the Mentorship scheme is offered to ARCS members only. You can read some mentorship stories here.

You can be at any stage of your career. Good mentors are interested in helping others, willing to share their experience and are knowledge, non-judgemental, comfortable at giving constructive feedback, as well as able to support and challenge their mentee. Listening skills and empathy are also important qualities. Support is provided to all mentors through ARCS.

This is based on your experience. You could be matched to an entry level mentee, an STP/ACS/Equivalence trainee or an HCPC Reproductive Scientist. ARCS is interested in recruiting mentors who can provide guidance with Diagnostic Andrology Training (e.g. logbook) or are at the level of Person Responsible.

Some characteristics of an effective mentee are, taking responsibility for professional progression, being driven and determined, being open to feedback and taking initiative in organising meetings.

Click the mentorship tab in your members area to find the online forms. Prospective mentors will be expected to attend a mentorship training event before starting their mentorship. Once ARCS receives the form, you will be added to the Mentorship database and matched to the most suitable mentor or mentee. Mentors and mentees will be introduced to each other via e-mail, it is then up to both parties to set up their 1:1 meetings

As part of the mentorship agreement, mentors should commit to completing the ARCS Mentorship Training which is hosted biannually/annually dependent on need. This can be completed retrospectively. Where a mentor feels that their expertise is unable to support the needs of their mentee, they can refer to the Mentorship scheme coordinator via the ARCS secretariat.

There will be no set structure to the meetings, to allow for flexibility. Meetings can be organised at the discretion of the mentor and mentee, but it is recommended that at least 3 x 60-minute digital sessions are undertaken per year as a minimum expectation, and usually the partnership ends after 2 years or sooner. It is up to the mentors and their mentees to agree on their agenda for each meeting. Mentors are there to guide and support the mentees but are not expected to have all the answers, rather to ask questions of the Mentee to promote reflection, and signpost to any relevant courses or information. You may find the mentorship experience stories useful to read.

The partnership can be ended at any point by contacting the ARCS secretariat. As best practice, mentors and mentees should agree to be open with each other and be clear about their expectations from the start. Should the expectations not be met, a new partnership can be sought from the ARCS secretariat without prejudice.

You can read all about our extensive member benefits here.

Full membership is for reproductive scientists working or training in clinical embryology, andrology, or academic science, based in the UK or Republic of Ireland. Full members are expected to be working (or training with salary) within the field of Reproductive science. Full membership comes with voting rights, eligibility to apply for ARCS grants and access to the Continuing Professional Development online platform. When applying you will need to choose a proposer. Any current full member of ARCS can be a proposer. If you do not know any other ARCS members, please contact the Secretariat for advice. You can apply here.

A Full membership is appropriate for anyone working in a reproductive science setting and receiving a salary. Student membership is for full time students only.

Associate membership gives a broader engagement with the reproductive science community, by welcoming those in supporting roles or those working internationally

This membership is for international and UK-based individuals in allied professions – this includes Quality Managers, Doctors, nurses, other healthcare staff working in a related area & researchers supporting reproductive science. Essentially, if you are connected to reproductive science but do not primarily fulfil the UK-based, actively working Full Member criteria, Associate membership is for you.

Associate members do not have voting rights but can opt into the CPD scheme at an additional fee.

You do not need to be an Executive member to join a Subcommittee. If you have a specialist interest in one of our subcommittees and wish to join, please complete this form to express your interest. This will be reviewed by the executive committee and you will receive a response.

Yes, this is a very new benefit for ARCS members. The ARCS executive can refer a member for two sessions of counselling with a BICA counsellor if they feel this is appropriate. This would be paid for by ARCS. You can also ask the Executive committee for advice and support.

We do not provide this as we are a professional body and our role is focused on maintaining professional standards, education, and continued professional development.

No. The exams can be taken by individuals not taking the HSST route to Consultant Clinical Scientist. Completion of the exams can be used as evidence for Higher Specialist Scientist (HSS) equivalence via the AHCS. Read more information on HSS equivalence here.

There is no specific timing for entry to the examination. Candidates should obtain guidance as to when to sit the examination, by speaking to a senior colleague who has knowledge of the candidate’s expertise and by consulting the online resources available at www.rcpath.org. Planning should take into account completion of training (where applicable) and state registration, but candidates should apply only when they are ready. Generally Part 1 will normally be taken following a minimum of 1 year post HCPC registration.

Information about what the exam will cover can be found on the RCPath website. There are also resources available such as sample questions.

The examination consists of two three-hour written papers and both papers are taken on the same day. The first requires written answers to four out of five questions, in a long answer format. The second paper comprises 20 sections each containing short answer questions, all of which should be answered.

For Reproductive Science, the Part 1 exam is only held in the Autumn session. The application portal usually opens in May and the exams are usually held late September. The results are released around the end of November. The exam will be online so there is no requirement to travel to a exam centre.

Candidates must have passed the Part 1 exam. The Part 2 examination will normally not be taken until eight years after obtaining the degree entry qualification. Please note this does not necessarily mean there has to be a large gap between Parts 1 and 2. A candidate entering Part 1 at about 6–7 years post-degree or later could progress rapidly to Part 2.

Information about Part 2 can be found on the RCPath website here. There are also resources available such as a sample practical questions.

This is different depending upon whether the candidate is undertaking the HSST programme.
For HSST the DClinSci thesis awarded will fulfil the written component. A proposal of intended research project will be submitted to the College for approval by MAHSE on behalf of the candidate.
All other candidates have 3 options:
1. A minimum of three published peer reviewed papers
2. A PhD or MD thesis
3. A casebook
Click here for specific guidance on these options.

Please note: Candidates will not be permitted to sit the Part 2 exam until a proposal for the written option has been submitted and approved by the examiners. The completed written option can be submitted before or after attempting the exam. Candidates must submit their finished project no more than three years after the original proposal was accepted. Candidates who do not submit within this time will be required to apply for an extension or submit a new proposal.

The overall standard should be such that it is suitable for publication in a professional scientific journal. It is recommended to have an academic supervisor that can review the written work prior to submission to ensure it is at the appropriate standard.

Information about what the exam will cover can be found on the RCPath website. There are also resources available such as a sample practical questions.
The exam will take place over the course of one day. There will be a one-hour oral exam and a three hour practical exam. The aim of this examination is to establish that the candidate has demonstrated a level of competence appropriate for independent practice at consultant level.

For Reproductive Science, the Part 2 exam is only held in the Autumn session. The application portal usually opens in May and the exams are usually held in October. The results are released around the end of November.