Leading: Woodland Biodiversity & Ecology

Develop the skills and confidence to lead engaging woodland biodiversity and ecology activities through practical Outdoor Education. Join Field Studies Ireland for a practical Leading Woodland Biodiversity & Ecology course, designed for those wishing to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to safely incorporate woodland biodiversity, ecology and environmental fieldwork into their teaching practices. This fully outdoor course builds on personal knowledge of woodland environments, focusing on how to share ecological knowledge and facilitate meaningful learning experiences for others through Outdoor Education, using practical and experiential approaches to learning. Participants will explore how to teach woodland biodiversity through species identification, habitat observation, simple ecological surveys and hands-on fieldwork. We will investigate woodland ecosystems, including trees, woodland floors and the relationships between different species and their habitats. Participants will develop their understanding of how to plan, demonstrate, adapt and facilitate engaging woodland activities for different groups, ages and abilities, while considering site selection, risk management and responsible environmental practices. Learning will be grounded in direct observation, practical fieldwork, informal education methods and shared experiences, using accessible equipment and simple techniques that participants can confidently replicate within their own local environments. Field Studies Ireland is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in Outdoor Education. Our expertise lies in using Outdoor Education as a methodology across a wide range of subjects, settings and environments, placing us in a unique position to deliver practical, meaningful training. We exist to empower access to Outdoor Education, helping people and organisations bring what they do outdoors, for the benefit of education, development and wellbeing. Who is this course for? This course is suitable for adults wishing to develop their ability to teach and facilitate woodland biodiversity and ecology activities for others, or those wishing to take their existing knowledge and skills to the next level. It is particularly relevant to teachers, educators, youth workers, volunteers, outdoor leaders, environmental professionals and others interested in using woodland environments to support education, development and wellbeing. Participants are advised to complete a relevant introductory course, such as ‘Intro: Woodland Biodiversity’, before attending. However, this is not essential, and those with suitable existing knowledge or experience are welcome to participate. What to expect Expect a friendly, practical and engaging learning experience, delivered entirely outdoors by Mark O’Connor, founder of Field Studies Ireland. Participants will spend the course developing and practising approaches to teaching woodland biodiversity and ecology, supported by demonstrations, shared experiences and opportunities to plan, facilitate and reflect on practical activities. The emphasis is on developing safe, accessible and engaging learning experiences that can be replicated in participants' own environments. This is a certified course. Participants who have successfully completed the relevant introductory training, alongside this course, will be eligible for certification. Those attending without suitable introductory training can still participate and develop their skills, with certification available following completion of the required training. As this course takes place in woodland environments, participants should expect uneven terrain, variable weather conditions and potentially wet ground. Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear are required. Group Training Field Studies Ireland regularly delivers this training directly to organisations, teams and community groups, often within their own local outdoor environments. The courses advertised here are intended for individuals or small groups wishing to join scheduled training. If you would like to arrange training for your own group, please contact Field Studies Ireland to discuss your requirements. [email protected]