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Field Studies Council

An environmental education charity with over 80 years' experience. Provides school trips, identification guides and natural history courses across the UK. Courses are written and delivered by experts and take place in stunning locations or online.

Short Courses

28/03/2024 Biodiversity Net Gain for Reviewers - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Sna8nP

This four-week course equips participants with the skills required to understand the principles of BNG and have an awareness of what goes into the Metric. You will learn valuable hands-on experience inputting data into the Metric 4.0, interpreting its outcomes, understanding its limitations, and discussing real-life case studies.

Cost £100

02/04/2024 Discovering Ferns - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3VqrOhe

This course is an introduction to the fern species found in the UK. The course covers their biology, ecology and where you can find them. Focusing on their key features such as fronds, spores and structure.

Cost £45

03/04/2024 Developing Nature Writing (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3ic63Dt

Using the written word, bring nature's power to life on your page. Take inspiration from nature, art, and philosophy. Aspiring nature writers are taken through a series of exciting workshops to hone their craft, sketching out the beauty of nature with the written word.

Cost £60

08/04/2024 Great Crested Newts: Ecology and Surveys 1 Day

Halkyn Parish Hall and Library, Halkyn, Holywell, Flintshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Vq1SlL

This advanced course will cover great crested newt identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), and will include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch, and egg searching. Participants will require their own transport to visit the field site during the course.

Cost £110

09/04/2024 Great Crested Newts: Ecology and Surveys 1 Day

Rixton Clay Pits, Moat Lane, Rixton, Warrington, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Vq1SlL

This advanced course will cover great crested newt identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), and will include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch, and egg searching.

Cost £110

10/04/2024 Discovering Botany (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Ev3h3E

In this beginner wildflower online course, you will build your understanding of wildflower basics considering their biology, ecology and the structure of flowering plants and be introduced to the species commonly encountered in the UK.

Cost £60

10/04/2024 Working with Natterjack Toads 1 Day

Talacre Community Centre, Gamfa Wen, Talacre, Holywell, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3O9sztA

This beginner course will cover all aspects of Natterjack toad ecology, surveying, and licensing. The course will combine classroom and field learning techniques, allowing you to gain confidence in Natterjack identification and an understanding of licensing issues and ecology.

Cost £110

11/04/2024 Great Crested Newts: Ecology and Surveys 1 Day

Rixton Clay Pits, Moat Lane, Rixton, Warrington, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Vq1SlL

This advanced course will cover great crested newt identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), and will include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch, and egg searching.

Cost £110

17/04/2024 Great Crested Newts: Ecology and Surveys 1 Day

Haddon Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Vq1SlL

This advanced course will cover great crested newt identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), and will include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch, and egg searching.

Cost £110

20/04/2024 Great Crested Newts: Ecology and Surveys 1 Day

Culzean Castle, Maybole, South Ayrshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Vq1SlL

This advanced course will cover great crested newt identification and ecology, survey techniques, the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI), and will include opportunities to practice netting, bottle trapping, torch, and egg searching.

Cost £110

20/04/2024 Otters and Water Voles: Ecology, Surveying and Conservation 2 Days

Low Barns Nature Reserve, Durham Wildlife Trust, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/48CCRut

This beginner to intermediate course will provide an introduction to Otters and Water Voles in the UK. You will learn about the ecology and conservation of both species and explain what to look for and how to conduct surveys.

Cost £220

22/04/2024 Biodiversity Skills: Animal Monitoring and Management 1 Day

Bishops Wood, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3xeAmxD

This beginner course will prepare you for undertaking faunal surveys - a crucial skill when starting your ecological career. You will become familiar with the subjects of these faunal surveys in the UK, and develop an understanding of why they are important.

Cost £110

27/04/2024 Identifying Woodland Plants 1 Day

Nettlecomb Court, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3JVx75y

This beginner course will introduce you to the most common plant groups and species found in native woodlands. We will be looking at a wide range of species groups, including trees, shrubs, smaller plants including a few common mosses and liverworts.

Cost £80

29/04/2024 Introduction to Spider Identification (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3JVXfNF

Join our tutor to discuss the identification features of a variety of UK spider species that can be identified in the field. During this beginner course, you will be introduced to more advanced morphological features which will aid with accurate identification.

Cost £60

01/05/2024 Woodlands: A Habitat Introduction 2 Days

London: Beckenham Place Park, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3OaL6Wx

This beginner to intermediate course is designed to give you a broad introduction to woodland habitats in Britain. You will learn to identify key woodland indicator species, as well as get to know the characteristics of different woodland habitat types and how to recognise when woodlands are healthy and thriving.

Cost £130

03/05/2024 Discovering Amphibians: Identification and Ecology (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org www.field-studies-council.org/courses-and-experiences/static-courses/discovering-amphibians/

This course is a great introduction for anyone with an interest in herpetofauna and for those looking at taking their first steps into an ecology career. All content has been created by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

Cost £45

04/05/2024 Wildlife Tracks and Signs: An Introduction 1 Day

Bennachie Visitor Centre, Pitcaple, Inverurie, Scotland, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/48WjV9W

This beginner course is great for those looking to improve their ability to identify a range of wildlife tracks and signs. You will learn skills to confidently identify a variety of mammal and bird activity including the physical appearance and ID features of tracks, feeding signs, homes, and droppings.

Cost £65

04/05/2024 Rocky Shores: A Habitat Introduction 2 Days

Millport, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3u5jgnJ

Rocky shorelines are home to a remarkable diversity of organisms. This immersive beginner course will be a chance for you to explore life on the rocks and in the pools, encountering many of the species that are characteristic of the UK coastline.

Cost £170

04/05/2024 Identifying Grasses Using Vegetative Features 2 Days

Juniper Hall, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DYaCcq

This beginner-intermediate course will help you develop your skills in identifying grasses using vegetative features. You will briefly look at flowering features before diving into the world of vegetative features, and looking for grasses in a variety of habitats alongside an expert tutor.

Cost £170

06/05/2024 Discovering QGIS (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3WQZcPt

Discover the basics of using QGIS in the context of environmental information. This course will take you through each step at an easy and accessible pace. With the support of our expert tutor, you will become confident with the QGIS interface, allowing you to build, style, and present maps

Cost £75

08/05/2024 Identifying Wildflower Families (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DWEmqg

Develop your botanical knowledge as you begin to explore the most common UK wildflower families in this beginner to intermediate online course. Becoming familiar with the most common families is a great way to start your botanical identification journey.

Cost £30

08/05/2024 Habitat Surveying: An Introduction 1 Day

Haddon Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4aZd5SX

This course is designed to give a theoretical and practical experience in botanical and habitat survey techniques available in the UK. You will learn how to select the appropriate methods for vegetation surveying and data collection in different habitats.

Cost £110

10/05/2024 Identifying Woodland Plants (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3jJ6rdG

Develop skills in woodland plant identification, concentrating not just on trees and the more colourful woodland herbs, but also on the traditionally difficult groups such as woodland grasses, sedges, mosses, liverworts and ferns. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical fieldwork.

Cost £366 - 570

10/05/2024 Bird Survey Techniques (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3jK2uW7

Learn and develop basic bird survey techniques. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory sessions and practical field work. Look into bird survey design, techniques, and interpretation of results. Practical experience of techniques including point counts, transects, breeding bird surveys, population counts, etc.

Cost £366 - 570

11/05/2024 Introduction to Marine Biology 2 Days

Millport, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DYaBVU

Learn introductory marine scientific survey techniques and discover a host of amazing organisms over this weekend course. Opportunities to get up close and hands-on with a range of fascinating marine species found around Scotland.

Cost £290

11/05/2024 Ferns: An Introduction 1 Day

London: Bushy Park, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3O8wXcG

During this course, you will start by looking at the basics of the biological definition of a fern and their place in the plant kingdom. You will be introduced to the common fern species found in the UK, studying their biology, ecology and key differences.

Cost £65

11/05/2024 Habitat Surveying: An Introduction 1 Day

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4aZd5SX

This course is designed to give a theoretical and practical experience in botanical and habitat survey techniques available in the UK. You will learn how to select the appropriate methods for vegetation surveying and data collection in different habitats.

Cost £110

11/05/2024 Wildflowers: An Introduction to Botanical Skills 2 Days

Hill End Outdoor Education Centre, Eynsham Road, Cumnor, Oxford, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3SlGJum

This beginner-level course will introduce you to the key features of flowering plants and guide you through using these to identify wildflowers. As you become familiar with the features of plants from a range of different species, your confidence and ability to use field guides and identification keys will grow.

Cost £130

11/05/2024 Habitat Surveying: An Introduction 1 Day

Buckden Village Hall, Buckden, Skipton, North Yorkshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4aZd5SX

This course is designed to give a theoretical and practical experience in botanical and habitat survey techniques available in the UK. You will learn how to select the appropriate methods for vegetation surveying and data collection in different habitats.

Cost £110

12/05/2024 Habitat Surveying: An Introduction 1 Day

Oakwell Hall, Nutter Lane, Birstall, West Yorkshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4aZd5SX

This course is designed to give a theoretical and practical experience in botanical and habitat survey techniques available in the UK. You will learn how to select the appropriate methods for vegetation surveying and data collection in different habitats.

Cost £110

13/05/2024 Woodlands: A Habitat Introduction 2 Days

Low Barns Nature Reserve, Durham Wildlife Trust, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3OaL6Wx

This beginner to intermediate course is designed to give you a broad introduction to woodland habitats in Britain. You will learn to identify key woodland indicator species, as well as get to know the characteristics of different woodland habitat types and how to recognise when woodlands are healthy and thriving.

Cost £130

16/05/2024 Field Identification of Bumblebees (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Myu9ok

This course introduces participants to the skills and understanding required to begin the reliably identify the species of bumblebee found across the UK. We also discuss collection equipment and techniques and the importance of generating biological records

Cost £60

17/05/2024 Discovering Trees (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3tlWWCx

During this course you will build your knowledge of trees and explore their incredible biology and ecology. Later topics take you through introducing the two main types of trees found in the UK.

Cost £60

18/05/2024 Introduction to Moth Trapping 2 Days

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3YC14Mv

This beginner-intermediate course will - quite literally - shine a light on this insect order and provide you with the confidence to take up moth-trapping yourself. The course will involve a mixture of classroom learning, practical work involving setting up moth traps, and the identification of moths attracted to the traps.

Cost £130

18/05/2024 Wildflowers: An Introduction to Botanical Skills 2 Days

Amersham, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3SlGJum

This beginner-level course will introduce you to the key features of flowering plants and guide you through using these to identify wildflowers. As you become familiar with the features of plants from a range of different species, your confidence and ability to use field guides and identification keys will grow.

Cost £130

18/05/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

18/05/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

London: Bushy Park, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

23/05/2024 Bee Conservation - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3AHirSo

This beginner course will introduce you to the threats bees are facing, and how conservationists and citizen scientists are taking action to reduce their decline. You can work through this course content and assignments at your own pace at a time that suits you.

Cost £10

25/05/2024 Identifying and Comparing Coastal Plants 2 Days

Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3RLphxw

This course will help you develop your ability to identify many of the common species and understand how they are adapted to live in the transitional habitats between land and sea - a beneficial skill to have.

Cost £160

25/05/2024 Identifying Lichens 2 Days

Nettlecomb Court, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/48YgAqZ

This beginner-early intermediate lichens course will consist of a blend of field and classroom sessions to provide you with a general introduction to lichens as a group, focusing on morphology, biology, ecology and chemistry, alongside identification and recording.

Cost £140

29/05/2024 Botanical Anatomy (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3jJ6rKI

This intermediate course will build on your existing understanding of botany and equip you with the skills to recognise more key morphological features needed for plant identification, including the arrangement of parts, groupings of fruits and the processes of double fertilisation and germination.

Cost £60

31/05/2024 Difficult Higher Plants (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3M3x3Bi

This course will provide you with a scientific introduction to the identification of higher plants, use and construction of keys, preparation of voucher specimens, plus surveying and recording. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical fieldwork.

Cost £366 - 570

31/05/2024 Identification of Solitary Bees (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/406qkMK

This course will introduce you to the identification and ecology of solitary bees, including nesting and foraging requirements, hosts, and associated aculeate nest parasites. Introduction to the genera and species will be through a combination of presentations, field visits, and microscope workshops using keys and prepared specimens.

Cost £366 - 570

01/06/2024 NVC: Summer Habitat Survey - Understanding and Describing Plant Communities 2 Days

Juniper Hall, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3tPku6N

This intermediate course will provide you with the skills required to confidently use the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) in summer as a framework to approach how plant communities are responding to environmental change.

Cost £250

07/06/2024 Discovering UK Seals: Identification, Ecology and Conservation (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3JWzYLz

This beginner course is a starting guide to the skills required to begin identifying and observing our native seals in the field. You will learn valuable observational field identification tips, life history characteristics and general ecology of the different seal species found around the British coastline.

Cost £60

07/06/2024 Using a Flora (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3YCLC2n

Your course will start with a revision of basic botanical structures and terminology, moving on to detailed study of a range of species, their characteristics and key features. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £416 - 620

08/06/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Broomlee Centre, Station Road, West Linton, Scotland, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

08/06/2024 Phase 1 Survey with Plant Identification Focus 2 Days

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3KbY5WI

This intermediate Phase I survey course will focus on helping you develop the botanical knowledge and field skills required to map habitats. Over the course duration, you will have the opportunity to survey and map a variety of habitats.

Cost £220

08/06/2024 Introduction to grasses, sedges and rushes 1 Day

Nettlecomb Court, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3YQvbAh

This course will provide a perfect beginner introduction to using a key to identify grasses, sedges, and rushes with confidence. It will enable you to develop an understanding of the key features that allow us to identify members of this group and to meet many of the most common species.

Cost £80

11/06/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Bute Park Visitor Centre, North Rd, Cardiff, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

14/06/2024 Identification of Bats (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/413j987

This bat identification course covers the identification, ecology and surveying of British bat species, also providing you with an understanding of the importance of these species for ecology, conservation and recording. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, classroom identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £366 - 570

15/06/2024 Habitat Surveying: An Introduction 1 Day

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4aZd5SX

This course is designed to give a theoretical and practical experience in botanical and habitat survey techniques available in the UK. You will learn how to select the appropriate methods for vegetation surveying and data collection in different habitats.

Cost £110

15/06/2024 Field Identification of Common Grass Species 1 Day

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3YX4hWH

This beginner-intermediate grass identification course is designed to help you understand the structure and field characters of common grasses. You will have the opportunity to take your learnings into the field and explore various lowland habitats on the course including: woodland, riverside, pond, meadow and pasture.

Cost £65

15/06/2024 Ferns: An Introduction 1 Day

Epping Forest Field Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3O8wXcG

During this course, you will start by looking at the basics of the biological definition of a fern and their place in the plant kingdom. You will be introduced to the common fern species found in the UK, studying their biology, ecology and key differences.

Cost £65

21/06/2024 Grasses, Sedges and Rushes (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/46ZkNd5

This Grasses, Sedges and Rushes course will provide you with an understanding of the importance of these species for conservation, ecology and recording. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £366 - 570

22/06/2024 Trees: Summer Identification 1 Day

London: Bushy Park, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3SnOlfR

This beginner course will introduce you to British trees, exploring tree biology, ecology, and identification. You will be introduced to the two main types of tree found in the UK (coniferous and broadleaf trees) and will study their key differences, biology and ecology.

Cost £65

22/06/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Buckden Village Hall, Buckden, Skipton, North Yorkshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

22/06/2024 Wildflowers: An Introduction to Botanical Skills 2 Days

Juniper Hall, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3SlGJum

This beginner-level course will introduce you to the key features of flowering plants and guide you through using these to identify wildflowers. As you become familiar with the features of plants from a range of different species, your confidence and ability to use field guides and identification keys will grow.

Cost £130

28/06/2024 NVC Grasslands (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3XBv89N

This NVC course will explain the methodology, with a specific emphasis on identifying grassland indicator species. You will also be introduced to a range of different communities and explore the tools and techniques available to support correctly classifying a community.

Cost £366 - 570

28/06/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Juniper Hall, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

28/06/2024 An Introduction to Butterflies and Moths 3 Days

Juniper Hall, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3YSqcyh

This beginner course will provide you with the skills to identify British butterflies and moths correctly. Develop an understanding of their ecology and monitoring techniques.

Cost £245

29/06/2024 Wildflowers: Top Ten Families Identification 1 Day

Haddon Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/4b5xs0H

This course will provide you with an introduction to wildflower families, covering a mixture of the more common and some unusual species, with an opportunity to identify these in the field. It will enable you to build skills in identifying wildflower families, in the presence of an expert tutor.

Cost £65

29/06/2024 Identifying Plants of Limestone Habitats 2 Days

RSPB Leighton Moss Visitor Centre, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3SHp7Yj

On this beginner-intermediate course you will immerse yourself in the limestone landscape, learn how to use field guides for accurate identification, and gain an understanding of the influence of geology on plants.

Cost £130

29/06/2024 Scottish Island Birds 2 Days

Millport, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3J2hYhX

This beginner-intermediate bird course provides a unique opportunity to embark on a guided ornithological tour of a beautiful, yet accessible, Scottish island. Be inspired and engaged by the expertise of our specialist tutor and enjoy being surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your interests.

Cost £216

01/07/2024 What is QGIS? (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3G53yN9

This introductory online QGIS course will introduce GIS and how it works, as well as an introduction to QGIS as an open software option. This course covers 2 topics, for which you will complete a variety of self-led online study content, activities, assignments and live Zoom sessions.

Cost £35

04/07/2024 Enhance Your Nature Writing: Exploration and Analysis (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3VmVyeP

This intermediate online course will introduce you to the roots of nature writing. Creative writers are taken through a series of exciting workshops where they take inspiration from the analysis of a variety of sources and hone their craft.

Cost £75

05/07/2024 Site Assessment Using Vegetation (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3kEV3Ac

The course will cover survey and recording techniques, data analysis and methods of evaluating sites including botanical species lists, phase 1 habitat survey, British plant communities, National Vegetation Classification (NVC), and how to put the information into context. There will be lectures, fieldwork and study sessions involving data analysis.

Cost £366 - 570

10/07/2024 Discovering Marine Invertebrates (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3tgcJTg

This beginner marine invertebrate course will explore marine invertebrate biology, ecology, and key identification features. By the end of the course, you will be able to classify the ten major phyla of marine invertebrates and describe common species.

Cost £35

12/07/2024 Identifying Insects Using Specimens and Microscopes (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3Q6h5aN

This course focuses on how to find and sample insects, how to prepare and curate specimens for identification purposes, and how to approach identification of your chosen species group. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £366 - 570

12/07/2024 Aquatic Plants (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/49160jD

This course will introduce you to the identification of aquatic plants, the key features for discrimination, and the importance of these species for ecology, conservation, and recording. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical fieldwork.

Cost £366 - 570

23/07/2024 Discovering Garden Birds: Identification and Ecology (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3AIJ3SP

This beginner online bird course is aimed at bird enthusiasts who wish to learn more about their much-loved garden visitors and want to begin to be able to identify them and understand their biology and ecology.

Cost £60

26/07/2024 Seal Field Skills to Inform Conservation - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/43SzvAv

Developed and led by leading seal conservation experts at the Seal Research Trust, this practical online course aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to start recording and surveying seals to become an effective seal ambassador.

Cost £75

02/08/2024 Fern Identification (MMU) 4 Days

Rhyd-y-creuau, Betws-y-coed, North Wales, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3OieivO

This Fern Identification course includes botany, ecology and identification of ferns in their natural habitats in North Wales. The three days of this course will be spent in the beautiful, rugged landscape of the Snowdonia National Park, looking at Pteridophytes: ferns and their allies, in their natural habitats.

Cost £366 - 570

07/08/2024 Discovering Trees (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3tlWWCx

During this course you will build your knowledge of trees and explore their incredible biology and ecology. Later topics take you through introducing the two main types of trees found in the UK.

Cost £60

21/08/2024 Discovering UK Otters: Biology, Ecology and Conservation (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3tjstEZ

This course will focus on what otters evolved from, their biology, behaviour, and where to find them. This course will also cover a basic overview of otter surveying, monitoring, and conservation whilst looking at human impacts on our UK otter population.

Cost £45

28/08/2024 Exploring Nature Writing (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3NThziG

Aspiring nature writers are taken through a series of exciting workshops to hone their craft, sketching out the beauty of nature with the written word in this introductory online nature writing course.

Cost £60

29/08/2024 Discovering Ferns - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3VqrOhe

This course is an introduction to the fern species found in the UK. The course covers their biology, ecology and where you can find them. Focusing on their key features such as fronds, spores and structure.

Cost £45

02/09/2024 Botanical Anatomy (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3jJ6rKI

This intermediate course will build on your existing understanding of botany and equip you with the skills to recognise more key morphological features needed for plant identification, including the arrangement of parts, groupings of fruits and the processes of double fertilisation and germination.

Cost £60

03/09/2024 Bird Field Skills (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3KTY1LA

This beginner online bird course will introduce you to the field skills required to start identifying and recording birds, including how to use a guide and make a valuable record.

Cost £20

06/09/2024 Discovering QGIS (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3WQZcPt

Discover the basics of using QGIS in the context of environmental information. This course will take you through each step at an easy and accessible pace. With the support of our expert tutor, you will become confident with the QGIS interface, allowing you to build, style, and present maps

Cost £75

06/09/2024 Identifying Lichens (MMU) 4 Days

Rhyd-y-creuau, Betws-y-coed, North Wales, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DYaBFo

This lichen identification course consists of a blend of field and laboratory sessions, focusing on morphology, biology, ecology and chemistry of lichens. The course will be delivered through a combination of presentations, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £366 - 570

06/09/2024 Broad-Leaved Trees (MMU) 3 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3M7vq5y

This weekend botanical tree course will equip you with the skills needed to confidently identify native broad-leaved trees; focusing on accuracy and diagnostic features. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £244 - 380

17/09/2024 Writing Nature Memoir - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3u0QwwE

This intermediate online course will introduce you to writing nature memoir. You will develop an understanding of the genre and literary techniques commonly used through a wide range of activities that will guide you in honing your own narrative voice and reflection skills.

Cost £75

19/09/2024 Bee Conservation - Online

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3AHirSo

This beginner course will introduce you to the threats bees are facing, and how conservationists and citizen scientists are taking action to reduce their decline. You can work through this course content and assignments at your own pace at a time that suits you.

Cost £10

20/09/2024 Identifying Mosses and Liverworts (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3S4xQ8E

This course will provide you with an introduction to the skills that are needed to collect and identify bryophytes. You will learn through a combination of field and laboratory sessions, using field keys and keys using microscopic characters to identify common species from a variety of habitats.

Cost £366 - 570

24/09/2024 Discovering Lichens (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DF2dtQ

This beginner course will introduce you to the wonderful world of lichens. You will look at what exactly a lichen is, how they reproduce, interact with their environment, indicate levels of air pollution, and much more.

Cost £60

26/09/2024 Discovering Tracks and Signs (Online)

Online, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3DUE4zi

This introductory online wildlife tracking course will explore the skills needed to confidently identify a variety of mammal and bird activities when you are out in the field. Wildlife tracking is a crucial skill within conservation management and key for species identification.

Cost £30

18/10/2024 Getting to Know Conifers (MMU) 3 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/3OEz3Bs

This weekend botanical tree course will equip you with the skills needed to confidently identify conifer trees; focusing on accuracy and diagnostic features. The course will be delivered through a combination of seminars, laboratory identification sessions and practical field work.

Cost £244 - 380

18/10/2024 Identification of Macrofungi (MMU) 4 Days

Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Field Studies Council biodiversity@field-studies-council.org c-js.info/47fcTwn

This course on identification of macrofungi is for those who are interested in fungi, have some basic experience of trying to identify them (e.g. using a pictorial field guide or participating in group recording forays) and would like to take their identification skills further.

Cost £366 - 570

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