Free Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Countryside Management Course in Guildford. Classes run at Merrist Wood College, full-time during the day. You'll study conservation science, the impact of tourism and development on rural areas, and the practical skills needed to manage competing demands on the countryside. The course runs over two years. To enrol, you'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, maths, and science, or a relevant Level 2 technical qualification at merit.
Who this course is for
The countryside sector needs people who understand both the science and the practical elements required to manage the many conflicting demands on rural areas. This course aims to prepare you for the task of successful countryside management. You’ll study a wide range of relevant conservation issues and analyse the complex impact that tourism and development have on the countryside and have a greater understanding of the scientific implications relating to these issues, enabling you to evaluate the threats and solutions that conservationists currently face. Practical skills underpin every element of this course. You will gain a broad knowledge of the different habitats around us including relevant legislation, and hands-on experience of the ‘gold-star’ management techniques that can be implemented to conserve the flora and fauna they contain. All 16-19 year olds on full-time programmes will be required to retake GCSE English and Maths or to undertake Functional Skills, if they have not already attained the equivalent of a GCSE grade C in these subjects, every year of their course, until they complete their studies.. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk
Entry requirements
You need to have 4 GCSEs at grade 4 and above including English, maths and science, or a relevant L2 technical qualification, ideally at a merit. (if the learner has dropped to a grade 3 in maths only or has a pass in a L2 qualification please put through to faculty approval so we can assess overall grade profile). For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk
What you will learn
You'll analyse conservation issues affecting the UK countryside.
You'll examine how tourism and development affect rural environments.
You'll develop an understanding of the science behind countryside management decisions.
You'll explore how to balance competing demands on rural land.
You'll study practical countryside management techniques and approaches.
You'll evaluate the environmental and ecological implications of land use.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Merrist Wood College, combining taught lessons with practical and investigative work. Assessment on the BTEC National Foundation Diploma is through a mix of coursework assignments and externally assessed units set by Pearson Edexcel. There are no traditional written exams for all units; some are assessed through tasks and projects you complete over the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Merrist Wood College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Countryside ranger: managing and maintaining nature reserves and rural land
Conservation officer: working with local authorities or wildlife organisations
Countryside warden: patrolling and protecting designated countryside areas
Environmental technician: supporting ecological surveys and land assessments
Rural estate worker: practical land and habitat management on private estates
Forestry worker: tree and woodland management in rural settings
What you could study next
BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma in Countryside Management (Level 3): a larger qualification that broadens your study and strengthens a university application.
Foundation Degree or BSc in Countryside Management, Conservation, or Environmental Science: the natural next step if you want to work at a technical or management level in the sector.
Level 3 NVQ in Environmental Conservation: a work-based route if you move into employment after this qualification.
