Level 3 Diploma in Countryside, Wildlife Management

Understanding how the countryside works, maintaining the landscape, its diversity of species and habitats are central to countryside management. If you enjoy being outdoors, don’t mind getting your hands dirty, and have an interest in wildlife, conservation, outdoor recreation, rural skills or game management, then this could be just the course for you.

You will learn about different habitats, such as woodland, wetland, heathland, grasslands, and the species that live in them; about natural processes and the ecosystems they support, and how these ultimately support all life. You will learn new skills from fencing and hedge laying, to woodland management, coppicing, tree planting and felling, and machinery operation and maintenance including tractors, chainsaws, brushcutters, ATVs and more besides.

Throughout, you will work towards industry standards and will gain and develop practical skills, as well as an understanding of theoretical issues within the industry. There is a significant emphasis on practical work in the course, with plenty of opportunity to get hands on and close up to trees. Educational trips are an important part of the course, and provide further learning opportunities in the form of visits and practical sessions. Close industry links provide learners real life work situations, coupled with a substantial work placement, you will gain all the experience you need to get you off to a flying start in your first job.

To complement the main course, a range of additional qualifications are offered (at cost) such as chainsaws, ATV quads, brushcutters, wood chippers, pesticide application and tractor driving.

You will also have the opportunity to work on community projects, and other activities, as well as your own individual project, whilst working towards completing the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate.