This 2.5 day intermediate course explores conifers and broadleaved trees in winter in the UK.
As autumn turns to winter, the broad-leaved trees lose their colour and the conifers stand out in contrast. This course will focus on teaching the practical skills of identification for conifers and broad-leaved trees in winter. We will also look at the differences in ecology and biology of the different types of trees.
This course includes:
- Comparison of broadleaf and conifer ecology and biology
- Diagnostic features for field identification of broadleaf trees in winter
- Diagnostic features for field identification of conifers
- Experience of identification in the field with an expert tutor
Read More
For broad-leaved trees in winter, you can no longer rely on the leaf shape and fruits for identification – bare twigs and winter buds help identify different species. However, in contrast, conifers are easier to identify because the majority of them retain their foliage throughout the winter and all their cones are fully formed.
In this course, you will learn about the biology and ecology of trees. You will use different keys for identification, look at the key features of the different families and genera of conifers and broadleaf trees. You will study specimens of different cones, foliage, twigs and bark and practise looking for appropriate characteristics to confirm species identification.
Additionally, it will cover the techniques for collecting and preserving voucher specimens, alongside ethical and legal considerations for scarce species and specimens (such as veteran trees). The course will also introduce tree pests and diseases.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Critically examine and synthesise the structural, physiological, and ecological complexities of broadleaf and conifer trees, highlighting their evolutionary significance, adaptation strategies, and contributions to ecosystem services.
- Demonstrate skills in identifying common UK broadleaf and conifer trees during winter, using diagnostic features such as bark, twigs, buds, and cones.
- Apply skills in the collection, preservation, and validation of voucher specimens.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career consultants and ecologists. This intermediate level course is open to anyone with some existing knowledge of the subject. This course is for those aged 18 and over only.
(You do not need to be a Harper Adams University student to attend this course).
Knowledge Level – Intermediate. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors .
Accommodation and meals
There are three booking options which all include course tuition, evening meals and refreshments:
- Non-Resident (Breakfast and lunch not included)
- Resident (Sole Occupancy)
- Resident (Shared room- please email [email protected] to inquire about this option)
If you choose a resident booking, this includes accommodation on Friday night and Saturday night, and meals throughout the course: an evening meal on the Friday and Saturday, and breakfast and packed lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
If you choose a non-resident booking, this includes an evening meal on the Friday and Saturday before the evening session. Please bring your own packed lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable. Please also note that bathrooms may be shared.
If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.
Bookings will close if course capacity is reached.
About the Tutor
Laurie Wildwood
Laurie Wildwood BSc (Hons) MSc MCIEEM is a professional ecological consultant and botany tutor who, with his refreshing approach, aims to inspire adults and children to explore and appreciate the natural world. His professional background is in ecology, conservation and habitat management.
Harper Adams University Student Information
Interested in becoming a HAU student?
You can find out more about the Biological Recording and Analysis programme here.
Existing HAU Biological Recording and Analysis Students
This 2.5 day course is one of your optional modules. You will be asked to choose your modules through HAU, and then you will book your accommodation and meal options through the Field Studies Council via an online form we will share with HAU.
If are a student and need more information about this course or the booking process, please email [email protected].
The summative assessment for this module will be set by HAU and will be completed and marked after the course.
Example Timetable
Example Timetable
Please note that this course is currently being developed for 2026 as part of the Harper Adams University ‘Biological Recording and Analysis’ course, so there may be small changes to the example timetable outlined below. Once a detailed schedule has been produced, this will be shared with participants.
Friday
- 1pm - Course begins. Mixture of classroom and field site visits
- 6pm - Dinner
- 7pm - Evening session to consolidate learning.
Saturday
- 10am - 5pm Mixture of classroom and field site visits, with a break for lunch.
- 6pm - Dinner
- 7pm - Evening session to consolidate learning.
Sunday
- 10am - 5pm Mixture of classroom and field site visits, with a break for lunch.
Lunch will likely be in the field, so please make sure you make yourself a packed lunch at the centre if you choose a residential booking, or bring a packed lunch with you if you choose a non-residential booking.
What's Included
-
Expert Tuition
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field, surrounded by like-minded individuals.
The course includes:
- Classroom learning covering the theory of the topic
- Field excursions to apply new knowledge
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Clear objectives and progression
- Refreshments (tea/coffee)
If you choose a resident booking, this includes accommodation on Friday night and Saturday night, and meals throughout the course: an evening meal on the Friday and Saturday, and breakfast and packed lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
If you choose a non-resident booking, this includes an evening meal on the Friday and Saturday before the evening session. Please bring your own packed lunch on Saturday and Sunday.
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
Bursaries and Subsidies
Natural History Bursaries
There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, read more here.
Student Discount
This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use the discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.
Before You Attend
What to Bring
- Notebook and pencil
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
- Small bag to carry personal items
- A vacuum flask/drink bottle and a bag or a box for carrying a packed lunch.
- x10 Hand lens (if you have one)
- Binoculars (if you have them)
- Your preferred tree ID resources/ guides
Recommended Literature
- Trees in Winter AIDGAP (covers 70 deciduous species with line drawings)
- Winter Trees AIDGAP (covers 36 deciduous species with photos)
- Field Studies Council Tree Name Trail
- Stace C.A. New Flora of the British Isles 3rd Ed. (2010). CUP
- Johnson, O. and More, D. Collins Tree Guide (2006) (or others) for trees.
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.
Opportunities to attend this course
This course is not currently available to book. Dates will follow soon.
Sign up to our Email Newsletter
No current dates for this course? Click here to view all the upcoming Natural History courses.
Sign up for the Biodiversity Newsletter to be the first to hear about new course dates and to get early bird discounts!
Progress Your Learning
This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, delivered by expert tutors with an approachable learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning with further relevant courses or branch out into other areas of natural history. The Field Studies Council 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 online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.
If you have any questions about our courses, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions or email [email protected].
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. Find out more!
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be at your fingertips. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
