This introductory online course will introduce you to the key characteristics of amphibians, and will then look more in-depth into the identification and ecology of UK species.
Increase your knowledge and explore the world of UK amphibians. For many of us, one of our first experiences in meeting wildlife is with frogs and tadpoles in our gardens. Being able to identify species and make site adjustments is a critical skill for anyone looking at working within a consultancy career.
This course will cover:
- Introduction to Amphibians
- UK Amphibian Identification
- UK Amphibian Ecology
Read More
This course is a great introduction for anyone with an interest in herpetofauna and for those looking at taking their first steps into an ecology career. All content has been created by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, so you can be confident that you are getting information from leading experts working within this field.
This is a 3-week online course covering 3 topics, for which you will complete a variety of self-led online study content, activities, assignments and live Zoom sessions. Time commitment is approximately 2-3 hours a week and an E-certificate is provided upon completion.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Explain Amphibian taxonomy, anatomy, and main ID features and how they differ from other animals.
- Identify UK Amphibian species and their defining features
- 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.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, Students, Rangers, Early career ecologists.
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.
Please note that bookings will close 2 working days before the course start date to allow for all participants to be enrolled to the online platform – bookings will not be taken after this time.*
Understand how our online courses are delivered.
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.
About the Tutor
Mandy Cartwright
Mandy Cartwright is a conservation ecologist who has been working with amphibians and reptiles for over 15 years. She is the north Wales officer for Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, where she manages a suite of reserves and projects dedicated to conserving amphibians and reptiles and their disappearing habitats.
Example Timetable
Timetable
Week 1: Introduction to Amphibians
Self-study material will be available on the course start date
Week 1 live webinar
Week 2: UK Amphibian Identification
Week 2 live webinar
Week 3: UK Amphibian Ecology
Week 3 Marked assignment
The final deadline to complete any outstanding activities is 2 weeks after the final webinar
Time commitment: This course will require approximately 2-3 hours of your time each week. This includes covering course materials on our Moodle learning platform and the zoom session.
What's Included
The course has been carefully created to help you continue to build on your knowledge as the course progresses. With content crafted to the online Moodle Platform and bespoke to the Field Studies Council.
The course includes:
45-minute interactive Zoom workshops to connect with the tutor and other participants
- Personalised feedback on a marked assignment
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Activities to work on independently in advance of each Zoom workshop
Once registered, you will follow well-illustrated, user-friendly ’books’ to pick up knowledge. Quizzes and skill-checks will give you instant feedback on your learning. Forums give students the chance to interact with each other as well as a place to share work.
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.
Bursaries and Subsidies
Student Discount
This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.
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.
Before You Attend
Accessing Your Course
Once you sign up you’ll receive an email at least 24 hours in advance of the course opening with details of how to access our easy-to-use platform, Moodle.
Moodle can be accessed through a browser or an app.
Webinars are via Zoom so you won’t need any new software to attend
Recommended Devices
It is recommended that you access your course through a PC or laptop. Please be aware that there will be reduced functionality if you decide to access the course through a tablet or smartphone. The Field Studies Council is unable to email content directly to you.
Opportunities to attend this course
-
Fri 07, March 2025 - Fri 11, April 2025
The webinars will take place on Fridays 4.00 pm - 4.45 pm on the following dates:
- Week 1: 14th March 2025
- Week 2: 21st March 2025
- Assignment Due: 28th March 2025
-
Fri 30, May 2025 - Fri 04, July 2025
The webinars will take place on Fridays 4.00 pm - 4.45 pm on the following dates:
- Week 1: 6th June 2025
- Week 2: 13th June 2025
- Assignment Due: 20th June 2025
No current dates for this course? Click here to view upcoming Natural History courses.
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 online courses please check our Frequently Asked Questions.
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. Click here to 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.