Discovering Veteran Trees of Epping Forest

During this course, we will explore Epping Forest to look at veteran tree distribution. We will cover how you can survey and record ancient and veteran trees, plus the historical context and management of Epping Forest. Finally, we will consider ancient trees as a habitat, illustrated using certain species/species groups. By the end of this course, you should feel confident in identifying a range of ancient and veteran trees through visual features.

This course takes place situated in the heart of Epping Forest, an area of around 2,400 hectares of wood-pasture, stretching from Manor Park in East London to just north of Epping in Essex.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Survey veteran/ancient trees and contribute to databases
• Recognise veteran/ancient trees and have an enhanced understanding of their importance
• Gain knowledge of Epping Forest trees
• Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers

Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career ecologists.

Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: 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 – there are no accommodation, lunch and or evening meal facilities at Epping Forest.

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Example Timetable

This timetable is subject to change but should give a clear outline of what to expect.

• Please arrive at 9:45am in time for the course to start promptly at 10:00am
• The course will end at 4:30pm

10:00am Introductions
10:30am Classroom session covering:

• Veteran tree survey methods
• Veteran tree habitat

11:30am Break and prepare for field session – refreshments not provided 
11:45am Practice of veteran survey methods in Epping Forest
1:00pm Lunch – Not included
2:00pm Wider field visit
4:00pm Classroom plenary and final questions
4:30pm Finish

Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not 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 Field Studies Council 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.

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.

The Wild Flower Society Bursary

The Wild Flower Society (WFS) has generously donated a number of bursaries to encourage a wider understanding of wild flower identification among younger people. If you are aged 18 to 30, you may wish to apply. You can find out more here.

What to Bring:

• Notebook and pencil
• Lunch and refreshments
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors

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.