Discover the wonder that is nature’s carpet!
This two-day introductory course is aimed at those who want to learn how to identify wildflowers independently. We will cover anatomy, terminology, and common families, and will teach methods of identification, including the use of keys, in a relaxed and passionate manner. Throughout the weekend there will be plenty of indoor and outdoor practical activities to aid learning. This course will leave you brimming with confidence to continue exploring this beautiful and understated group of plants.
The course will include:
- Basic learning of the anatomy and terminology of sedges, grasses and rushes.
- An introduction to the use of keys to aid identification.
- Fieldwork to identify a wide variety of species plus knowledge checking.
We anticipate that this course will run with between 8 and 16 participants.
A basic level of fitness is required to be able to walk at a slow stop/start pace for 2/3 hours whilst out in the field.
If you are 18-25, you can get £50 off this course thanks to the Generation Green project. Click here to find out more and to get your voucher code.
Tutor: Laurie Wildwood
Laurie Wildwood 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.Please note, the fee is for tuition and refreshments only.
If you would like to book accommodation and an evening meal at FSC Blencathra please email [email protected].
Example Timetable
Day One
Classroom-based learning of the anatomy and terminology of sedges, grasses and rushes, plus an introduction to the use of keys to aid identification.
Day Two
Excursions from the field centre on foot to find and identify a wide variety of species, plus ongoing consolidation of what we have learned.
If you have booked accommodation at the centre, please arrive between 8:30am and 9:45am on arrival day, allowing time to settle into your room before the course begins
If you are a non-resident, please arrive by 9:45am.
The course will end at 17:00pm on the last day and we ask that rooms are vacated by 9:30am.
What's Included
-
Expert Tuition -
Free Wi-Fi -
Hot and Cold Drinks
- Up to 6 hours of tuition a day.
- Tea and coffee making facilities available throughout the day.
- Use of resources and facilities including workrooms and the Centre grounds.
Bursaries and Subsidies
If you are 18-25, you can get £50 off this course thanks to the Generation Green project. Click here to find out more and to get your voucher code.
Before You Attend
What to Bring
- Notebook and pencil.
- Hand lens*.
- A copy of “Grasses, Sedges, Rushes & Ferns” (Francis Rose, 1989)**.
- A copy of “Grasses” (C.E.Hubbard, 1992)**.
- Clothing to suit the British weather!
- Walking boots.
- Sun cream, insect repellent.
* These items can be borrowed at the Centre.
** If you have one. Not essential, as photocopies of key sections will be available for you to use throughout the weekend.
Sorry this course has ended