Conservation Studies – Countryside

Your first set of course materials will be sent to you when you enrol. You can start as soon as you want and progress through the course at your own pace, studying when and where you choose.

This flexibility makes it easy to fit learning around work and family commitments.

The extensive course materials have been developed by conservation experts and are clear and straightforward, so your studying is easy and enjoyable. As you complete each lesson, your tutor will promptly return your marked assignment with constructive feedback and guidance. (You can also contact your tutor or the support team for help at any point during your studies.)

The course includes all the required study materials.

There is no formal examination. On successful completion you will be awarded an HCC Certificate. You have 2 years to complete the course.

We are proud of our friendly, caring ethos and aim to do all we can to help you succeed.

Our tutors are all experienced, highly qualified and passionate about sharing their love of their subject. You can phone or email your tutor throughout the course – to ask questions, for advice, encouragement or to draw on their wealth of knowledge.

You can also contact the support team who are here to help you Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Lesson 1 – Biology of the tree; ecology of woodlands; man’s impact on woodlands

Lesson 2 – Hedgerows and verges. Management and maintenance; types of hedgerows

Lesson 3 – Conservation and ecology of wetlands. Study of wetland area

Lesson 4 – Conservation and ecology of heathlands. History of heathlands

Lesson 5 – Conservation and ecology of the seashore. Seaweed zonation

Lesson 6 – Access to the countryside. Rights of way; common land, problems with access

Lesson 7 – Brief history of agriculture; organic control methods, agriculture and habitat

Lesson 8 – Towards a sustainable society (1). Conservation and the search for alternatives

Lesson 9 – Towards a sustainable society (2). The urban fringe; wildlife in urban areas

Lesson 10 – Conclusions, perspective and a directory

If needed you have 2 years to complete the course. Many students are able to complete this course in approximately 6-12 months*.

*Timescales are approximate and depend upon application and motivation.

There are no exams. On successful completion of this course you will receive an HCC Certificate*,  graded to show the standard you have reached. The HCC’s reputation means this can be highly regarded on a CV and, combined with your portfolio of coursework, is evidence of your achievements (whether you are applying for a job or a more advanced study course).

* The HCC Certificate will be issued once you have successfully completed your course and finished your course payments.

•  This is designed as an introductory course, and does not enable entry into employment directly, but could provide some of the underpinning knowledge required by anyone working in practical land-based conservation or related areas and in general land-based work, for employers such as charities, wildlife and conservation trusts, nature reserves, private estates, and councils.
• You could progress to the following HCC courses:
   

  RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation and Development
  RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance
  RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Health and Applied Propagation
  RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Construction and Planting
  Market Gardening
  ABC Level 2 Certificate in Arboriculture
  ABC Level 2 Certificate in Forestry
  The HCC Certificate in Arboriculture
  The HCC Diploma in Arboriculture

You do not need previous knowledge or experience of conservation or ecology to enrol on this course.