Learn how to design, implement and record the results of amphibian surveys; a critical skill for anyone looking at working within a consultancy career.

There are seven species of amphibians in the UK that we hope to find during this course.

This beginner course will cover the theory and practice of designing and carrying out surveys for amphibians using standard methods, and how to record the results. This course will introduce you to the theory or amphibian survey techniques, followed by a practical demonstration of amphibian field survey and finally how to record the results. By the end of the course, you will be able to design, carry out and record the results of an amphibian survey using standard methods.

This level 2 course is next in the series of our Amphibian framework and is a perfect progression from our level 1 Amphibian courses

Your course takes place on a 12-hectare estate, surrounded by a rich range of habitats, including the River Severn and semi-ancient woodland, set in the heart of Shropshire with views disappearing into Wales.
PLEASE NOTE the course fee is for tuition only. There is no accommodation provided with this course. If you would like to book accommodation, lunch and an evening meal at FSC Preston Montford, please email [email protected]

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached

The course is suitable for anyone with a personal or professional interest in surveying for amphibians.

Who Should Attend?

Nature enthusiasts, Students, Early career ecologists, Citizen scientists, Volunteer surveyors

Knowledge Level

Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge

Knowledge of British amphibian identification and ecology is beneficial.

What will be covered during this course?:

    • Theory of amphibian survey techniques
    • Undertaking amphibian surveys
    • Amphibian recording

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

    • Explain the different ways amphibians can be surveyed in the UK
    • Conduct a variety of amphibian survey techniques
    • Describe how amphibian species occurrence records can be submitted and how they have been used to broaden our understanding of British amphibian distributions.
    • Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers

This is a place-based training course from FSC, including a balance of classroom-led learning to impart important knowledge and irreplaceable hands-on outdoor learning opportunities to give individuals skills and confidence. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning within amphibians with further relevant FSC courses or branch out into other areas of the animal kingdom. The FSC 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 fantastic tutor will combine the use of classroom-led learning and outside learning opportunities to give individuals the skills and confidence to learn more about amphibians.

    • See the ‘Example Timetable’ and ‘What’s Included’ sections below for more information about this course.
    • Upon booking you will need to provide individual details of all attendees
    • 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.

    • Discounted rates
    • Privately run courses for your group
    • Bespoke courses developed specifically for your needs

Click here to find out more!

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.

If we are unable reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 14 days prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.

Tutor: Dr John Wilkinson

John is a conservation ecologist who has been working with amphibians and reptiles for over 25 years. He manages Regional, Science and Training Programmes for the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC) and has a particular fascination for toads!

Book with Confidence

We understand the difficulties of making plans in the current situation when guidelines continue to change, and insurance conditions are being tightened. In response, we will continue to offer additional flexibility. Find out more here

Example Timetable

Example Timetable

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

    • Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly at 10:00am
    • The course will end at 5:00pm
10:00am Introductions
10:30am Classroom session covering:

  • Introduction to amphibian survey theory
11:30am Break and prepare for field session – refreshments not provided 
11:45am Field Session
1:00pm Lunch – Not included
2:00pm Continued field session
3:45pm Break – refreshments not provided 
4:00pm Classroom session covering:

  • Recording amphibians
4:45pm Plenary and final questions
5:00pm Finish

Please note accommodation, refreshments and an evening meal are not included

What's Included

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 FSC 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.

Before You Attend

What to Bring:

    • Notebook and pencil
    • Camera to capture images
    • Lunch and refreshments
    • Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors

You may wish to purchase the FSC Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians to enhance your experience

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.

Sorry this course has ended