This course has been cancelled. You can view a full list of courses here
Get to know how to identify amphibian species and make site adjustments; a critical skill for anyone looking at working within a consultancy career.
There are seven native species of amphibians in the UK that we hope to see during this course.
This introductory course is a great start for anyone with an interest in amphibians and for those looking at taking their first steps into an ecology career. You will learn how to identify our native amphibians, and about their ecology. This course will introduce you to the key characteristics of amphibians and will then look more in-depth into UK species. By the end of the course, you will be able to identify common UK species as well as non-natives, explain their basic ecology and also have a basic understanding of key mitigations needed when working in an area of interest for amphibians.
Your course takes place on a 12-hectare estate, surrounded by a rich range of habitats, including the River Severn and semi-ancient woodland, set in the heart of Shropshire with views disappearing into Wales.
PLEASE NOTE the course fee is for tuition only. There is no accommodation provided with this course. If you would like to book accommodation, lunch and an evening meal at FSC Preston Montford, please email [email protected]
Bookings will close if course capacity is reached
The course is for anyone interested in amphibians and is looking to improve their ability to find, identify and understand the ecology of British amphibians.
Who Should Attend?
Nature enthusiasts, Students, Early career ecologists, Citizen scientists, Volunteer surveyors
Knowledge Level
Introductory. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors
Prior Knowledge
No existing knowledge or experience is needed for this course. Just a willingness to explore and learn.
This course will cover:
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- Introduction to Amphibians
- UK Reptile Identification
- UK Reptile Ecology
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
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- Explain Reptile taxonomy, anatomy, and main ID features and how they differ from other animals
- Identify UK amphibian species
- Describe the different habitats, ranges and life cycles of UK amphibians
- Identify reasonable adjustments that need to be taken to protect amphibians
- Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers
This is a place-based training course from FSC, including a balance of classroom-led learning to impart important knowledge and irreplaceable hands-on outdoor learning opportunities to give individuals skills and confidence. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning within amphibians with further relevant FSC courses or branch out into other areas of the animal kingdom. The FSC offers both online and in person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.
The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our fantastic tutor will combine the use of classroom-led learning and outside learning opportunities to give individuals the skills and confidence to learn more about amphibians.
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- See the ‘Example Timetable’ and ‘What’s Included’ sections below for more information about this course.
- Upon booking you will need to provide individual details of all attendees
- Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Group Bookings Made Easy
If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses.
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- Discounted rates
- Privately run courses for your group
- Bespoke courses developed specifically for your needs
About our partner, ARC
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) was established in June 2009. ARC was created around the core of the Herpetological Conservation Trust (HCT), in response to the wider needs of herpetofauna conservation, providing the UK focus for all aspects of reptile and amphibian conservation. ARC continues to focus on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, creating an extensive network of nature reserves, coordinating monitoring programmes and volunteer networks and developing an effective role in advocacy both within the UK and Europe.
If we are unable reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 14 days prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.
Tutor: Dr John Wilkinson
John is a conservation ecologist who has been working with amphibians and reptiles for over 25 years. He manages Regional, Science and Training Programmes for the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) and has a particular fascination for toads!Book with Confidence
We understand the difficulties of making plans in the current situation when guidelines continue to change, and insurance conditions are being tightened. In response, we will continue to offer additional flexibility. Find out more here
Example Timetable
Example Timetable
This timetable is subject to change but should give a clear outline of what to expect
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- Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly at 10:00am
- The course will end at 5:00pm
| 10:00am | Introductions |
| 10:30am | Classroom session covering:
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| 11:30am | Break and prepare for field session – refreshments not provided |
| 11:45am | Field Session |
| 1:00pm | Lunch – Not included |
| 2:00pm | Classroom session covering:
|
| 3:00pm | Break and prepare for field session – refreshments not provided |
| 3:15pm | Field Session to apply classroom knowledge |
| 4:30pm | Classroom plenary and final questions |
| 5:00pm | Finish |
Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included
What's Included
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Expert Tuition
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you continue to build and develop your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.
The course includes:
- Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
- Field excursions to apply new knowledge
- Expert tuition for which the FSC is renowned
- Clear objectives and progression
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing an FSC course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
Before You Attend
What to Bring:
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- Notebook and pencil
- Camera to capture images
- Lunch and refreshments
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
You may wish to purchase the FSC Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians to enhance your experience
There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.
Sorry this course has ended
