Gamekeeping & Wildlife Management - NVQ Level 2
Gamekeepers manage both upland and lowland areas for the benefit of reared or wild game (e.g. pheasant, partridge, grouse, duck and deer). They also control pests. Gamekeepers maintain and create woodlands, hedgerows, and ponds for quarry species, but these provide shelter for many other kinds of wildlife and help to ensure the diversity of our countryside. Approximately 5,000 gamekeepers manage around 7.3 million hectares of countryside in the United Kingdom.
The habitat maintained for game provides important habitat for "at risk" species also. Pest and predator control carried out by gamekeepers benefits ground nesting birds such as the redshank. Gamekeepers are involved in conservation initiatives and work with conservation agencies such as English Nature, British Trust for Ornithology and local wildlife trusts on projects such as badger watch, otter watch, polecat research, bird counting and the reintroduction of the Red Kite.
Many manage areas which are legally protected for wildlife, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. If you are looking for an active and varied outdoor career, this could be for you.
The course combines block release study at College with on the job training with an employer. The real hands on experience is gained form the work placement, with college staff assessing and supporting at regular intervals.
Each apprentice has a nominated Training Co-ordinator, who will provide co-ordination between the employer, the College and the apprentice, giving continuity and support throughout the course.
QUALIFICATIONS
Apprentice
- NVQ Level 2 in Game and Wildlife Management
- Key Skills
- ERR
- Certificate of Competence in All Terrain Vehicle Handling
- First Aid
- One other occupational or legislative qualification
NVQ Level 2 in Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management - units include:
- Assist in game shooting activities
- Monitor game populations and habitat
- Maintain game populations
- Assist with the management of public relations and access to a sporting estate
- Maintain game habitat
- Maintain and repair structures and surfaces
- Control vertebrate pests and predators using traps
- Control vertebrate pests and predators by shooting
- Care for animals used in support of gamekeeping and wildlife management
- Maintain equipment and machines
- Optional units – 2 required
Key Skills
Application of Number, Communication, I.T., Working with Others, Problems Solving and Improving own Learning and Performance at Level 1
Assessment
Assessment is carried out on a continuous basis involving collecting evidence which is incorporated into a portfolio.
Key Facts:
Campus: Holme Lacy
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: Two years, block release
Entry Requirements:
No formal qualifications are required but some experience and insight into the role of a gamekeeper is required
Typical Employment:
Gamekeeper, countryside warden, river keeper, game farm worker.
Further Study:
National Certificate in Countryside Management, National Diploma in Game and Fishery Management or employment
Contact: 0800 389 9805
trainingdivision@hct.ac.uk
