Wildlife Conservation Qualifications Package (with practical training)

Wildlife Conservation Qualifications Package (with practical training)

This Course Package at a Glance

• Develop your knowledge, skills, and experience of wildlife conservation
• Achieve FIVE Level 3 Award qualifications
• Includes marine training at Sussex Dolphin Project, near Brighton!
• Includes rewilding training at Southill Park, Bedfordshire, UK!
• Start and study at any time
• 480 Guided Learning Hours
• 11 Units

Unlock the Power of FIVE Wildlife Level 3 Awards!

Imagine the possibilities when you combine the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills of five wildlife conservation qualifications:

1. Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist
2. Level 3 Award Rewilding and Restoration Manager
3. Level 3 Award Conservation Scientist
4. Level 3 Award Community-Based Conservationist
5. Level 3 Award Environmental Educator

Representing key areas of the popular and growing conservation industry, each qualification has been designed by professional conservationists to teach the key knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career protecting nature.

By combining these five exceptional qualifications, you'll harness a synergistic power that goes beyond individual certifications and gain a broad understanding of key roles within the sector. This will help clarify your career path and make you more employable and impactful with your work.

Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to unlock your potential and embark on a rewarding journey towards becoming a conservation professional. Enrol in our exclusive combined package today and create a brighter future for our planet!

Qualification #1: Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist

Ideal for those already working with animals or aspiring to pursue a career in marine conservation, our Marine Biology Fundamentals course is designed to equip you with a broad range of essential skills. You'll delve into the intricacies of marine ecosystems, exploring their delicate balance and gaining a deep understanding of marine life.

Discover the latest research methods and monitoring techniques used in the marine environment, and develop expertise in key areas of marine conservation. From comprehending the crucial policies and legislation to honing the invaluable skill of designing, funding, and managing conservation projects, this qualification opens doors to a world of opportunities.

Practical Experience | Sussex Dolphin Project

The qualification includes optional practical training with the Sussex Dolphin Project, Newhaven (near Brighton). You’ll enjoy a day’s training with their research team of marine biologists. The day will be split into a classroom session and a boat-based practical session. This will usually be a morning in the classroom and an afternoon on the water but they swap this around as the tides dictate.

Qualification #2: Level 3 Award Rewilding and Restoration Manager

This qualification is ideal for learners who’d like to explore or intend to enter, a career working in Rewilding and Restoration relating to wildlife conservation. This includes students, job seekers, and career switchers.

Learners will develop an understanding of the theories and discussions revolving around the context of Rewilding and Ecological Restoration. From their definitions to their histories and the present situation.

1 Day Rewildling Practical Training | Southill Park, Bedfordshire, UK

Embark on an immersive day in the field to delve into the fascinating world of rewilding on a private estate in Bedfordshire, UK. This captivating experience, provided by Made in the Wild and run by the esteemed leader, Jack Randall, begins with an introduction to rewilding principles, its significance in addressing ecological imbalances caused by human activities, and inspiring success stories from rewilding projects worldwide.

In the picturesque Southill Park Estate, you'll join Jack Randall on a guided nature walk, observing its current ecosystem dynamics and discussing the rewilding activities active and planned on site. You'll discover the pivotal role of keystone species in revitalising ecosystems and learn about innovative habitat restoration strategies like reforestation and habitat connectivity.

Engaging in practical exercises, you'll explore monitoring and tracking wildlife, deciphering animal signs, and deploying camera traps to collect valuable data. Moreover, you'll explore the delicate balance between rewilding and local communities, understanding the importance of community involvement and sustainable practices. There will be a particular focus on butterflies and birds and also mapping habitats for rewilding projects.

With the invaluable knowledge and expertise provided by Made in the Wild and Jack Randall on this private estate in Bedfordshire, you'll depart with a renewed sense of awe for nature's resilience and be empowered to contribute to the transformation of landscapes and support the revival of our precious natural heritage.

Qualification #3: Level 3 Award Conservation Scientist

This qualification is ideal for learners who work in or intend to enter, a career working in conservation science or research.

This content covers a wide range of topics related to conservation science and provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. In Unit 1, students will learn the definition of conservation science, the key goals of the field, and the difference between conservation science and conservation biology. They will also discover the other disciplines that are essential to the success of conservation science.

In subsequent units, students will learn about the key principles of conservation science, the history of conservation science, and the international policies and types of organisations related to the field. They will also explore the roles and responsibilities of conservation scientists and the employment opportunities available.

Additionally, students will learn about the common models, tools, and techniques used in conservation science and examine effective conservation projects. Finally, students will learn about establishing a conservation project, including the Conservation Standards project cycle and the key steps in securing funding for a conservation project. By completing this content, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and career opportunities in conservation science.

Qualification #4: Level 3 Award Community-based Conservationist

Are you interested in learning about community-based wildlife conservation? This regulated qualification offers two comprehensive units that cover everything you need to know to get started.

In Unit 1, you will learn about the definition of community-based conservation and the key principles behind it. You'll also delve into the history of involving communities in conservation, as well as the key international policies and organisations related to community-based conservation. This foundational knowledge will provide a strong basis for implementing community-based conservation projects.

Unit 2 takes a practical approach to implementing community-based conservation. You'll learn about different ways to work with communities for conservation, including the key processes needed for effective implementation. Understanding the roles and responsibilities in community-based conservation projects will also be covered, along with examples of community-based conservation in practice. Finally, you'll develop an understanding of the process of designing, funding and managing a community-based conservation project - a highly valued skill within the sector.

By the end of this course, you'll have a solid understanding of community-based conservation and the tools and knowledge necessary to start implementing your own projects. Whether you're a conservation professional, student, job seeker or career switcher, this course will provide valuable insights and skills to help you succeed. Join us today and make a difference in your community and the world!

Qualification #5: Level 3 Award Environmental Educator

This qualification is ideal for learners who work in, or intend to enter, a career working in education in environmental and conservation organisations, outdoor learning and others in educational settings wishing to develop environmental activities.

Learners will explore methods and techniques for education and learning for the environment and conservation. They will gain knowledge of relevant learning theory and practice relating to different target audiences. Learners will also develop an understanding of developing and planning environmental educational activities to deliver appropriate outcomes. In addition, learners will understand the importance of emotional engagement in achieving action and behaviour change.

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider. Our online courses and qualifications give you the flexibility to engage with your studies whenever suits you best.

Whilst studying the Wildlife Conservation Qualifications Package (with practical training), you’ll gain essential skills and knowledge regarding a career as a wildlife conservationist.

The benefit of online learning is that you can plan your studies around your existing commitments. So, you’re able to progress with your learning in a way that works for you, without the stressful balancing act. With no classes to attend or a timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your studies.

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your qualification. Also, all the material is readily available as soon as you enrol so you’re able to start right away.

Modules

Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist (RQF)

Unit 1 | Marine Conservation

Learners will gain knowledge of marine conservation, including multidisciplinary approaches required for its practice, and the intricate connections between terrestrial, river, and estuarine ecosystem health and the marine environment.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand marine conservation
• Know the multidisciplinary approaches necessary for marine conservation
• Understand the links between terrestrial, river, and estuarine ecosystem health and the marine environment

Unit 2 | The Marine Environment

Learners will understand the various threats to the marine environment, including the impact of human activities, enabling them to contribute effectively to its protection. They will also gain an understanding of marine conservation legislation, key areas essential for working in marine conservation, and the skills required to establish a successful conservation project.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand threats to the marine environment
• Understand marine conservation legislation
• Know the key areas for working in marine conservation
• Know how to establish a conservation project

Level 3 Award Rewilding and Restoration Manager

Unit 1 | Rewilding and Restoration

Learners will develop an understanding of the theories and discussions revolving around the context of Rewilding and Restoration. From their definitions to their histories and the present situation.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the meaning of rewilding
• Understand the background of rewilding
• Understand the principles of rewilding and examples
• Understand the problems with rewilding and its future
• Know how to establish a conservation project

Unit 2 | Ecological Restoration

Learners will develop an understanding of the theories and discussions revolving around the context of Rewilding and Restoration. From their definitions to their histories and the present situation.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the meaning of restoration and its goals
• Understand various terminologies related to restoration
• Understand different types of restoration
• Understand restoration and reintroduction

Level 3 Award Conservation Scientist

Unit 1 | Definitions, Principles, and History of Conservation Science

Learners will develop an understanding of the terminology associated with conservation science, allowing them to relate it to the history and principles of conservation science.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the definition of conservation science
• Understand the key principles of conservation science
• Understand the history of conservation science
• Understand the key international policies and types of organisations relating to conservation science

Unit 2 | The Role of a Conservation Scientist

Learners will develop an understanding of the intricate roles of the conservation scientist, exploring the different roles of employment available and how it is used in practice.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand key conservation scientist roles and responsibilities
• Understand employment opportunities for conservation scientists
• Understand some common models, tools, and techniques used in conservation science
• Understand examples of conservation science in practice
• Know how to establish a conservation project

Level 3 Award Community-Based Conservationist

Unit 1 | Community-Based Conservation

Learners will develop an understanding of the definition of community-based conservation, the key principles of community-based conservation, the history of approaches to involving communities in conservation and the key international policies and types of organisations relating to community-based conservation.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the definition of community-based conservation. This includes:
  • Explain what is meant by ‘conservation’
  • Explain what is meant by ‘community’
  • Describe some types of community groups that might be present in the project area
• Understand the key principles of community-based conservation
  • Describe the key principles of community-based conservation
  • Explain what is meant by ‘customary’ rights, rules, and regulations
  • Explain what is meant by ‘indigenous people’
  • Explain why it is important to consider gender in community-based conservation
• Understand the history of approaches to involving communities in conservation
  • Describe the model of national park ‘fortress conservation’
  • Describe a disadvantage of ‘fortress conservation’
  • Describe some advantages and disadvantages of ‘community-based conservation’
• Understand the key international policies and types of organisations relating to community-based conservation
  • Describe Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land
  • Describe the key principles of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity
  • Describe the 30x30 conservation target
  • Explain the key principles of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
  • Describe an international organisation championing community-based conservation

Unit 2 | Implementing Community-Based Conservation

Learners will develop an understanding of the different ways to work with communities for conservation, the key processes needed for effective community-based conservation, the key roles and responsibilities in community-based conservation project, examples of community-based conservation in practice and the key steps to establishing a conservation project.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand different ways to work with communities for conservation
  • Explain the principle of ‘co-management’
  • Explain why generating employment for local people can be important for conservation outcomes
  • Explain what is meant by a ‘sustainable livelihood’
• Understand key processes needed for effective community-based conservation
  • Explain the principle of ‘free prior informed consent’
  • Explain why stakeholder mapping is important
  • Describe different stakeholders to be considered in stakeholder mapping
  • Explain the purpose of a ‘grievance redress mechanism’
• Understand key roles and responsibilities in community-based conservation projects
  • Describe the responsibilities of a community outreach officer
  • Describe the responsibilities of a project manager
  • Explain what is meant by a ‘training of trainers’ model
• Understand examples of community-based conservation in practice
  • Describe an example of effective community-based conservation
  • Explain what made this example an effective community-based conservation project
  • Describe a challenge that the project has faced
• Understand the key steps to establishing a conservation project
  • Explain the Conservation Standards project cycle
  • Describe the key steps in securing funding for a conservation project

Level 3 Award Environmental Educator

Unit 1 | Principles of Environmental Education         

Learners will develop an understanding of environmental education including background education theory and practice; learner stages and needs; relationship to formal (curriculum based) learning; planning and setting outcomes.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose of environmental education
• Know the background of environmental education and how it relates to learning theory
• Understand learner stages, needs and development
• Understand different approaches to environmental education
• Develop learning activity plans and set outcomes

Unit 2 | Application of Environmental Education

Learners will develop an understanding of education outside the classroom and outdoor discovery and learning; techniques and approaches for different audiences; and the delivery of environmental education in different settings (visitor centres, parks, self-led and directed, interpretation)

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand different approaches and resource needs when delivering activities outside the classroom and outdoors
• Know about relevant aspects of Health & Safety, Safeguarding, and Risk Assessment
• Know the different audience types and understand their different learning needs
• Develop and adapt environmental education activities for different settings
• Understand that interpretation and signage can be used for environmental education and know the basic principles of interpretation planning and design

Unit 3 | Environmental Education in the 21st Century

Learners will develop an understanding of environmental education in practice and its application in Education for Sustainability and use in education in areas of climate change; biodiversity; campaigns and advocacy; and behaviour change. Learners will also understand the importance of evaluation and some methods of doing so.

On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• Understand how environmental education is evolving and developing to incorporate related disciplines
• Understand how feelings and emotions are important to achieving outcomes focused on ‘action’
• Understand the concept of behaviour change and how this can be used for environmental education plans and activities
• Understand measurable environmental education outcomes
• Understand environmental education projects

Entry Requirements

This qualification is ideal for learners who work in or intend to enter, a wildlife conservation-related career. This qualification is intended for learners aged 16 and above. There are no other formal entry requirements for this qualification; however, due to the nature of the qualification content, those undertaking the qualification must have a proficient level of spoken and written English (e.g. GCSE Grade C / Grade 4 or above) or equivalent.

Minimum Age Restriction

16

Average Completion Timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Assessment Requirements

You will build a portfolio of evidence, clearly demonstrating where you have met the learning outcomes and qualification requirements.

Various types of evidence may be used, for example:

• Essays/assignments
• Short questions and answers
• Workbooks
• Professional discussions
• Observations of performance in the workplace
• Product evidence
• Reflective accounts
• Witness testimony
• Records of questioning

Evidence in the portfolio should be mapped against the learning outcomes, reflect the type of evidence supplied and indicate its location within the portfolio.

Practical Placements

As part of the programme, you will have the opportunity to participate in an optional training placement at:

• Marine Training Day | The Sussex Dolphin Project, located near Brighton. This immersive experience involves a full day of training with their esteemed team of marine biologists, consisting of both classroom and boat-based practical sessions. The schedule may vary depending on tidal conditions, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.
• Rewilding Training Day | Embark on an immersive day in the field to delve into the fascinating world of rewilding on a private estate in Bedfordshire, UK. This captivating experience is provided by Made in the Wild. Engaging in practical exercises, you'll explore monitoring and tracking wildlife, deciphering animal signs, and deploying camera traps to collect valuable data. Moreover, you'll explore the delicate balance between rewilding and local communities, understanding the importance of community involvement and sustainable practices. There will be a particular focus on butterflies and birds and also mapping habitats for rewilding projects.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

You will be assessed through a mixture of short and long-answer written assessments/assignments.

When are you assessed?

As you’re in control of how you learn, you’re also in charge of when you complete your assessments.

This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assessments.

Gatehouse Awards

Upon successful completion of this qualification, you will be awarded five qualifications as follows:

• A Level 3 Award Marine Conservationist, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2575/6).
• A Level 3 Award Rewilding and Restoration Manager, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2617/7).
• A Level 3 Award Conservation Scientist, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2577/X).
• A Level 3 Award Community-based Conservationist, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2572/0).
• A Level 3 Award Environmental Educator, an Ofqual regulated qualification (Qualification Number: 610/2705/4).

Gatehouse Awards Ltd is a leading awarding body recognised by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, England (Ofqual). They also have a significant international presence providing language testing services.

Completing this Wildlife Conservation Qualifications Package (with practical training) can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of the most common career options for someone with qualifications in this subject include:

• Community Engagement Specialist: Graduates will have knowledge on how to engage with communities to achieve conservation goals. They will understand the importance of involving local communities in conservation projects and how to communicate effectively with them to foster support for conservation activities.
• Conservation Project Manager: Leading and managing conservation and restoration projects in different environments such as forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats. They would use their knowledge of rewilding and ecological restoration to plan and implement projects aimed at restoring and enhancing biodiversity in degraded ecosystems.
• Conservation Scientist: As a Conservation Scientist, you would work to protect and restore natural habitats and ecosystems. This might involve conducting research, designing, and implementing conservation programmes, or working with local communities to promote sustainable practices.
• Ecological Consultant: Providing expert advice to different organisations, including government agencies, conservation groups, and businesses, on the restoration of degraded habitats. Ecological consultants use their knowledge to assess the ecological status of sites, develop ecological restoration and rewilding plans, and monitor the progress of restoration projects.
• Environmental Campaigner: The understanding of behaviour change and advocacy gained from this qualification can lead to roles as environmental campaigners. These professionals work to raise awareness, promote sustainable behaviours, and advocate for policy changes related to environmental issues.
• Environmental Educator: Graduates will be equipped with knowledge on how to educate communities on conservation-related issues. They will be able to design and implement educational programmes that teach communities about conservation and how to make positive environmental changes.
• Fisheries Scientist: As a Fisheries Scientist, you would work to manage and conserve fish populations, balancing the needs of Fishermen and other stakeholders with the health of the ecosystem. This might involve conducting research, monitoring fish populations, or advising government agencies on fishing regulations.
• Marine Biologist: As a Marine Biologist, you would study marine organisms and ecosystems, examining their behaviour, physiology, and ecology. You might work for government agencies, non-profit organisations, or private companies, studying everything from fish and marine mammals to plankton and coral reefs.
• Oceanographer: As an Oceanographer, you would study physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the ocean, including currents, waves, and tides. You might work for government agencies or research institutions, studying everything from ocean circulation to climate change.
• Park Ranger: Responsible for managing natural areas such as national parks, nature reserves, and other protected areas. Their knowledge of rewilding and ecological restoration can be used to manage and restore habitats, monitor wildlife populations, and develop and implement conservation and restoration plans.
• Research Scientist: Research scientists work in universities, government agencies, and non-profit organisations, conducting research on conservation issues such as climate change, species decline, and habitat loss. They may use field or lab techniques to collect and analyse data and publish their findings in scientific journals.
• Restoration Ecologist: Restoration ecologists work to restore degraded ecosystems to their natural state. They may focus on restoring habitats for specific species, such as wetlands for migratory birds, or work on larger-scale restoration projects like reforestation or dam removal.
• Wildlife Biologist: Wildlife biologists study the behaviour, ecology, and population dynamics of wildlife species. They may work in the field, collecting data on animal behaviour, habitat use, and reproductive success, or in the lab, analysing biological samples or genetic data.

Overall, taking the Wildlife Conservation Qualifications Package (with practical training) can lead to a rewarding career working to protect and conserve our planet.

Frequently Asked Questions