Level 3 Advanced Extended Diploma in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

Subject Area: Course code: Course Type:
Wildlife, Ecology & Conservation CM216A01/20/2 Further Education

Course Information

The countryside requires expert management if its resources are to be conserved and developed. This two year advanced course provides the management skills to make decisions, solve problems and plan for the future. Suitable for both school leavers and mature applicants looking for a career change, students will gain sound practical training and have the opportunity to develop a wide range of interests in wildlife and habitat management, conservation and the environment.

This qualification gives you the opportunity to learn about and build on the essentials of working within the wildlife and countryside industries, such as estate skills, population surveys, safe use of equipment and machinery, land use and recreation and environmental processes.You will have the opportunity to work with local employers who will contribute to the knowledge and delivery of training. Employers will provide demonstrations and talks on the industry and where possible work placements will also be provided. This practically based training is ideal preparation for gaining employment in the wildlife and countryside industries or specialist further study, including progression to a range of degree courses.

Overview

Qualification
  • Level 3 Advanced Extended Diploma in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
Course Content
  • Principles of health and safety & Work related experience
    Machinery operations
    Estate skills & a range of habitat management-Farm, grassland, coasts & heaths
    Population surveys, ecology and conservation
    Countryside recreation
    Archaeology and landscape history
    Principles of physical and biological environmental processes
    Woodland habitat management & Greenwood crafts
    Ecological concept and application
    Environmental interpretation

    Additional qualifications available (subject to satisfactory attendance and completion of assignments) include City & Guilds (NPTC) Certificate of Competence in Tractor Driving and Related Operations and Brushcutters. First Aid and Manual Handling are also taught. Much of the training towards these qualifications is included within the course and in most cases only assessment fees need to be paid by students wishing to achieve these additional qualifications.
Entry Requirements
  • 4 GCSEs at grade 4/5 or above, including English, maths and a science OR a relevant Level 2 Certificate at Distinction level OR an Apprenticeship in Environmental Conservation with good levels of maths and English. Mature students lacking formal qualifications will also be considered. Enthusiasm, relevant practical experience, a keen and active interest in wildlife the countryside and the ability to cope with written work is required.
Next Steps
  • FdSc Marine Ecology and Conservation, FdSc Countryside and Coastal Conservation, Intermediate/Advanced Apprenticeships in Environmental Conservation
Career Opportunities
  • Estate management, Countryside ranger, Warden, Countryside conservation officer, Countryside contractor - walling, hedgelaying, fencing etc, Forest officer, Parks officer, Wildlife adviser, Rights of way officer, Environmental education officer, Field studies tutor, Ecologist. Potential employers include: National Trust, Wildlife Trusts, RSPB, Local authorities, Forestry Commission, Environment Agency, Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage, Ecological consultancies, Charities, Self-employment.

Dates & Fees

Dates & Times
Start date: End date: Start time: End time:
07-Sep-2020 (Already Started) 24-Jun-2022 9.15 a.m. 4.45 p.m.
Attendance
Mode of attendance
Full Time
Timetable
Day of the week Number of sessions
Yr1-Mon - Wed, Yr2 Wed-FriYr2 - Wed - Fri 70
Course Fees

There are no course fees for eligible students aged 16-18. Students aged 19-25 may also be eligible for government funding or a student loan depending on their circumstances.
Assessment fees for additional qualifications - usually between £80 and £150 per qualification for certificates of competence such as Chainsaws & ATVs For some additional qualifications a contribution towards the cost of training may also be required.

Materials Required

Basic Stationery; Calculator, Pens, paper and lever arch files. Suitable Outdoor Clothing - The clothing must be suitable for environment, weather and time of year, Protective Overalls, Steel Toe Capped Work Boots, Steel Toe Capped Wellington Boots, Hi-vis yellow vest. AEL Uniform (polo shirt and sweat shirt). Tetanus protection is recommended. All protective equipment will be inspected by the Course Manager

What's next?

Applications for this course are now closed. If you'd like to know when there will be another or need more information we are happy to answer any questions.