BDS Launches Blended Online DSC1 Course to Train More Deer Managers

19 September, 2024

Article by:
DSC1, Training and Education , British Deer Society

British Deer Society Launches Blended Online DSC1 Course to Train More Deer Managers

The British Deer Society (BDS) is proud to announce the launch of the new blended version of the Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 (DSC1), a nationally recognised qualification in deer management. Combining online learning and in-person assessment makes the DSC1 training more accessible and flexible for aspiring deer managers without compromising the high standards of quality and excellence that the BDS is known for.

A Blended Learning Approach to Ensure Quality and Flexibility

The DSC1 Online Course offers a blended learning approach, combining the convenience of online study with the rigour of in-person assessment. Participants complete the learning component of the DSC1 on BDS’s dedicated training platform. This is then followed by an in-person Assessment Day at various venues across the UK. This blended structure ensures that while the learning style has evolved to be more accessible, the high quality of training and rigorous verification of assessments is maintained.

“We have worked hard to develop a course that meets the demands of modern learners without sacrificing the high standards we’ve always maintained,” said Nick Rout, Head of Training and Education. “The in-person Assessment Day with support from the training team ensures that our welfare and competency standards, which are key to deer management, remain intact.”

Addressing the Need for Accessible Training in Challenging Times

Given rising accommodation, travel, and food costs, the online DSC1 course is a cost-effective and empowering solution for participants. With the new format, learners can complete most of their training at home, reducing costly travel and accommodation needs. This move also responds to a growing need in the deer management sector to enhance accessibility and diversity and enable more individuals to become qualified deer managers.

“Our new format will help reduce the financial and logistical barriers to entry that many individuals face when pursuing professional qualifications in deer management,” said Nick Rout. “Especially in the current economic climate, making training more accessible without compromising quality is essential.”

Key Features of the Online DSC1 Course

The DSC1 Online Course includes the following features:

Comprehensive Online Learning: Video presentations, digitised resources from the BDS Training Manual for Deer Stalkers, and interactive quizzes to test participants’ knowledge.
Expert Support: Full email support and a live Q&A session with BDS’s specialist training team to help participants prepare for their in-person assessments.
In-Person Assessment: All five DSC1 evaluations will be conducted at one of BDS’s training venues, ensuring that candidates meet the same high standards as those in the traditional in-person course.
Nationally Recognised Certification: Upon successfully completing the course and assessments, participants will earn the nationally recognised Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1 (DSC1), quality-assured and awarded through Deer Management Qualifications (DMQ).

A Qualification Recognised Across the Industry

The DSC1 is widely respected in the UK’s deer and land management sectors. Police forces often request this qualification as a prerequisite for obtaining a Firearms Certificate (FAC) with a deer condition. It is also accepted by both public and private landowners as evidence of competency in deer stalking and management.

By offering the DSC1 in this more flexible, blended format, BDS aims to help train and certify more qualified deer managers, addressing the growing need for effective deer management in the UK.

Enrolment and Course Availability

The online DSC1 course is now open for enrolment, with in-person Assessment Days currently available in Royston, Bristol, and Altyre. These Assessment Days typically involve a full day of practical and theoretical assessments, including marksmanship and safety procedures, which are difficult to assess effectively online. Additional locations will be added throughout the year. The course cost includes full access to all online materials, the in-person assessments (all completed in one day) and email support from our team of highly experienced deer managers.

For more information or to register for the course, visit https://bds.org.uk/courses-training/courses/dsc1-online-training-course-with-assessment-day/

passionate about protecting deer

If you are passionate about protecting deer populations and supporting sustainable deer management practices, consider joining the British Deer Society (BDS). Your membership helps fund vital research, educational initiatives, and conservation efforts across the UK.

Alternatively, you can make a donation to help us continue our work. Together, we can make a difference.