About the course

The College offers opportunity to study at level 3 (A level equivalent) for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of Countryside Management encompassing practical techniques, academic knowledge and technical skills. It is a popular option for both school leavers and successful Level 2 Diploma students. The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises.

The conservation route provides students with plenty of opportunities to obtain the knowledge and 'hands on' experience needed for managing a range of habitats such as saltmarshes, woodlands, ponds, reedbeds and grassland. Students will also learn the necessary countryside skill to manage these habitats, for example dry-stone walling, all-terrain vehicle driving, tractor driving, hedge laying, tree planting and fencing. Deer Management and Fishery Management are integral to the course.

The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to enable them to proceed to higher education or employment as habitat managers, estate workers and local authority conservation officer wardens and ecologists.