Branch out with your learning on this beginners’ introduction to British trees in winter.

You will start with some simple tree biology to reveal more about how these giants of the plant kingdom function and appreciate their importance within the environment. You will then head outside for practical tips to begin winter field identification of the most common species.

This course will include:

  • Understanding simple tree biology and the importance of trees.
  • Practical experience in identifying some of the most common tree species with an expert
    tutor.

Read More

This course will enable you to build skills in identifying trees in winter when there aren’t leaves to help you, in the presence of an expert tutor. You will go out into the field and observe the wide variety of trees that can be found.

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

  • Understand how trees fit into the plant kingdom
  • Explain the basic functions of different parts of a tree in winter
  • Recognise by key characteristics of some of the most common broadleaf trees in winter

Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers.

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

This course is delivered by more than one expert tutor. Your tutor will depend on the location of the course you book.

Henry Miller

I am a botanist working at Kew gardens on projects relating to conservation of tropical plants in Uganda as well as producing extinction risk assessments for Ethiopian species. Outside of work I am involved in the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland and the London Natural History Society, I volunteer with these organisations to record and identify a wide range of plants.

Dr Jackie Symmons

Dr Jackie Symmons is an experienced freelance ecologist and conservation land management adviser from Mid Wales. She has an extensive background in delivering conservation field research and training from wild deer impacts to marine and terrestrial environment habitat surveys. She is also currently working in the area of natural resource resilience and climate change mitigation.

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

  • 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 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

What to Bring

    • Notebook and pencil
    • Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
  • Small bag to carry personal items

If you have them:

  • Your preferred tree guide
  • A x10 hand lens

Recommended Literature

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

  • Sat 15, November 2025 09:00 - 12:00

    Price
    £35.00
    Tutor
    Henry Miller
  • Sat 15, November 2025 13:00 - 16:00

    Price
    £35.00
    Tutor
    Henry Miller
  • Fri 21, November 2025 12:30 - 15:00

    Directions and further information on Bute Park can be found here.

    Location
    Bute Park Visitor Centre, 35 North Rd, Cardiff, CF10 3DX
    Price
    £35.00
    Tutor
    Dr Jackie Symmons

No current dates for this course? Click here to view all the upcoming Natural History courses.
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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.