A one-year or two-year course, this qualification gives you a solid foundation in the science and practice of conservation and managing the countryside. You will benefit from undertaking practical hands-on projects at the Broomfield Hall estate and in the surrounding countryside.
You need to be motivated and demonstrate a keen interest in wildlife and conservation. You will need:
OR
You will have an interview which parents and carers are welcome to attend. You will also be asked to show an example of any current work.
If you are a mature learner, we may be able to take into consideration any previous experience.
You need to obtain relevant work experience: more details will be given at your interview.
To progress to Year 2 of this course, you will be required to pass first year exams.
Examples of units covered include:
• Safe working practices
• Population surveys, ecology and conservation
• Machinery operations
• Countryside recreation
• Estate maintenance skills
You will be assessed throughout the course, including exams and assignments.
You will be required to supply your own:
You could progress to a higher level course such as a university degree in subjects like Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Management or you could choose to go into employment with agencies such as the National Trust, local authorities or water authorities. Some people also choose to become self-employed.
Derby College Group offers a range of one-day, weekend and evening courses relating to Countryside Management, as well as a wide range of other land-based topics - please see the Derby College Group Part-time Prospectus for a full list and details.
For Graeme Turner, Derby College provided the ideal preparation for his job as a ranger at Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre.
The wide-ranging content of the BTEC National Diploma in Countryside Management stood him in good stead for a role where every day is different and involves duties from showing visitors around and running events to looking after livestock and liaising with contractors. Graeme praises the “friendly and approachable” lecturers and the chance to bounce ideas off his fellow learners, whose ages ranged from 16 to 38.
He went on to gain a degree in Travel and Tourism with Countryside Management but says he would not have secured his current role without the experience he gained at College.
Derby College gave me the qualifications to pursue a career as a ranger and ultimately secure a degree which led to further career advancement. The course helped me learn how to handle responsibility, share my ideas and work well with others.