Course Explorer

LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT

Countryside students conducting coastal survey work, one of the many skills that are learnt on these courses.

Resources

150 hectare fully functioning commercial farm
256 hectares of land comprising a wide range of natural habitats including woodland, urban and aquatic
Outside classroom equipped with a range of facilities
Countryside Stewardship Scheme

Typical Employers
Local authorities, game estates, wildlife and conservation trusts, nature reserves and organisations such as The Environment Agency.

Industry Links

Students benefit from close ties with organisations such as English Nature, RSPB, English Heritage as well as a number of local wildlife parks and nature reserves. The College is a member of The National Trust and Kent Wildlife Trust.

More about Countryside, Wildlife and Game Management faculty

Preparing students for a career in a variety of sectors within the countryside and conservation industries, this course provides an understanding of how land has to be managed in a sustainable way.

You will benefit from extensive practical sessions on the College estate and farm where you will study the local woodland and waterways, enabling you to work effectively across a range of environments. These skills are further developed during your work experience.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have 4 GCSEs at grades A* - C, 2 of which must be English, Maths or Science or have a full level 2 qualification at Merit in a relevant subject.

Additional Experience
Life experiences will be taken into account when considering applications.

Location
Hadlow

Course Duration
2 years, 4 days per week.

Course Content

Year 1

Understand the principles and carry out the practice of wildlife population surveys, ecology and conservation
Undertake estate skills
Understand the principles of physical and biological environmental processes
Undertake woodland habitat management
Understand the principles of plant science
Understand the principles of soil science
Understanding freshwater and wetland management
Undertake an Investigative project in the land-based sector
Understand the principles of animal biology
Functional skills

Year 2

Undertake farm habitat management
Understanding coastal management
Understanding ecological concepts and application
Understanding land use and environmental issues
Undertake land-based machinery operations
Understand the principles of tree felling and chainsaw use
Understand and undertake wildlife management and rehabilitation
Understand principles of forest recreation
Undertake and review work related experience in the land-based industries
Functional skills

Assessment Method
Continuous assessment through assignments, projects and practical tests.

Progression Routes
Successful students may be able to progress onto a degree in Countryside Management or related subjects. Alternatively, you may enter industry as RSPB officers, forestry workers, estate managers or countryside and park rangers.

Specialist Equipment Needed
You will need steel toe-capped boots, waterproof clothing, a clipboard, wellington boots and work clothing.