Fergus Harkins achieved chartership through the further learning exam and now volunteers to help engineers in a similar position.
In 2019, I had a conversation with my local ICE coordinator about my professional development.
I wanted to pursue the Incorporated Engineer (IEng) qualification, having obtained my bachelor's degree.
Shortly after, she informed me of a new pilot exam designed to demonstrate further learning.
The further learning exam
The ICE further learning exam allows holders of an accredited bachelor's degree to demonstrate the knowledge needed to obtain chartered status.
It bridges the gap by allowing individuals to demonstrate how their work-based experience provides the required level of engineering knowledge and skills to register as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
After successfully completing the exam, you can complete your Initial Professional Development and progress to the Professional Review.
The exam deepened my understanding
I eagerly accepted the challenge of the exam, and the study process proved incredibly rewarding.
The exam broadened my knowledge in key areas such as project and risk management, sustainability, and contracts.
This deeper understanding was invaluable when I later pursued my Chartered Engineer qualification.
Particularly, in applying engineering solutions from fresh perspectives, as highlighted by the case studies in the exam.
After successfully completing the exam in 2019, I focused on achieving chartership, which I accomplished in 2021.
Why I then decided to volunteer as a script marker
Soon after achieving chartership, I was invited to participate in exam moderation for the further learning exam.
I seized this opportunity, as the exam had been instrumental in my own development.
I saw it as a way to contribute to the growth of engineers who were in a similar position.
The professional benefits of being a script marker
One of the most significant benefits of moderating exams was gaining insight into the diverse projects candidates were undertaking and their various approaches to problem-solving.
As someone working within the railway sector, reading about projects and techniques in other industries has been interesting.
Moderation also allowed me to refresh my knowledge on current topics, guidance, and legislation.
By engaging in the script marking process, I also gained a better understanding of common pitfalls.
This has enabled me to provide more effective advice to developing engineers within Arcadis.
The exam panel also has regular meetings which I’ve found useful. I’ve met other markers who come from a variety of backgrounds, getting their views on the case studies and marking procedure.
Why others should consider becoming script markers for further learning
I strongly recommend others to take part in marking the further learning exam.
It’s significantly enhanced my understanding of new technologies and working methods.
It's also offered a valuable opportunity to collaborate with the ICE in nurturing engineering talent and paving the way toward chartership.
The case studies have been also very valuable in challenging my own knowledge and how I would approach the various projects involved.
This has helped me when delivering projects in my role at Arcadis.
Get involved
If you’d like to join the ICE’s team of script markers please email a copy of your CV, stating your membership number, to [email protected].
If you wish to speak to a member of the team, please call +44 (0)20 7665 2211.
