DSC v PDS

[J@son]

I think that PDS is starting to look like a meaningful rival to DSC. I notice Jelen are now offering PDS courses in preference to DSC. I think BASC/BDS/NGO have missed a trick in failing to get Lantra /Rural Skills accreditations. I am a big fan of DSC and when PDS came along dismissed it as a daft money spinner aimed at London-based wanna-be's happy to buy a short cut to stalking bragging rights. But... like it or not (and I don't like it) PDS does appear to be gaining ground - as Jelen's shift in position demonstrates. I have no interest in the "exclusive" Capreolus Club but I have a nothing but respect for Jelen. DSC has served stalkers extremely well. I want it to continue to be seen as the "gold standard" of stalking qualifications. But, if this is going to happen, those behind DSC can't afford to sit on their hands and simply assume their inevitable pre-eminence. And I think they could start by achieving Lantra recognition.

I agree that no piece of paper (DSC or PSD) makes a good stalker. It's not that simple. But I also suspect that it won't be long before we need a way of demonstrating proficiency and experience in order to continue stalking. I would like to see a clear route to this based around DSC but I think for this to happen those behind the qualifications need to raise their game.

Thoughts....?

 

[VSS]

Agreed.

 

[finnbear270]

Without Doubt, they need to get onboard.

 

[Moose67]

what they said

 

[cjm1066]

DMQ evolved from the BDS Woodland Stalker's Competence Certificate with QFI U10230047 and now the Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Game and Wildlife Management, K/502/3971 322 Stalk and cull deer & M/600/1237 323 Prepare deer for human consumption very similar.

DMQ didn't want outside verification hence they developed their own qualifications, in time PDS and similar might gain more market share, you pays your money and takes your choice, one issue is which of the providers will be around in 20 years time?

 

[Dickie]

There is this about Lantra qualifications though which people could perceive as a money spinning aspect.

Lantra qualifications are considered lifetime qualifications, but it's recommended to take refresher courses every 3–5 years to keep up with best practices. For example, Lantra's First Aid at Work certificate is valid for three years, and a two-day qualification course must be completed within one month of expiry. If you don't complete the course within that time, you'll need to take the full course again.

 

[Pete6.5]

If deer stalking qualifications start having to be redone ever few years that will be the end of it for me. My main business has the situation that I have to do them every 5 years and it's nothing but a money maker and I've had a gut full of it.

 

[SOE]

If deer stalking qualifications start having to be redone ever few years that will be the end of it for me. My main business has the situation that I have to do them every 5 years and it's nothing but a money maker and I've had a gut full of it.

Pete you are a damn good stalker! During your DSC2 assessment you were pretty faultless..so I cant see you throwing it all up because of admin crap..so ride the wave and crack on regardless mate! Krs Tony L

 

[J@son]

If deer stalking qualifications start having to be redone ever few years that will be the end of it for me. My main business has the situation that I have to do them every 5 years and it's nothing but a money maker and I've had a gut full of it.

As far as I know, no-one is suggesting that people who have done PDS have to resit it every 2/3 years to maintain their qualification. I imagine it would leave PDS dead in the water if this was the case. I realise that some Lantra qualifications (such as emergency first aid at work) require this and agree this is often just a money spinner - although in some instances (especially where skills aren't used on a regular basis) I can see wire a refresher every couple of years is a good idea.