This is a great course for beginners looking to learn more about the fungi around them and start to identify fungi groups.
You will learn valuable observational field skills and what to look for with the support of our expert tutor, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the weird and wonderful world of fungi.
This course will include:
- Understanding simple fungi biology, features and the importance of fungi.
- Practical experience in identifying some of the most common fungi species with an expert tutor.



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By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Describe what fungi are and how they relate to other living things.
- Understand the basics of fungi biology.
- Describe fungi habitats and the environmental conditions they require.
- Describe the key features required for identification and identify most common fungi species.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career ecologists, anyone with an interest in the subject.
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 is no accommodation or meal facilities provided with this course. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be available. 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.
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
About the Tutor
Mike Green
Mike leads fungus forays and workshops to help people to experience fungi and nature in a new way. He is a Ranger with London National Park City and is part of the London Fungus Network, an initiative to connect mycologically-curious humans with the urban Fungal Kingdom/Queendom. He holds a BSc and MSc in geography and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM). Other areas of expertise include edible plants and the evolution of rivers and streams (fluvial geomorphology).
Example Timetable
Timings for this course may vary, so please check the start and end times of the different course runs at the bottom of the page.
Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly.
This course will involve both classroom learning and field excursions to cover all of the learning objectives.
What's Included
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 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 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
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.
What to Bring
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- Notebook and pencil
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
- Small bag to carry personal items
If you have them:
- Your preferred fungi guide
- A x10 hand lens
Recommended Literature
As part of this course, you will receive a copy of the Field Studies Council WildID Guide: Fungi Name Trail from your tutor to use during your course and to take home.
Opportunities to attend this course
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.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!