Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is pleased to announce that the 2016 Wildlife Champion training programme is now open for registration until 31stAugust 2016. The programme is aimed at anyone interested in wildlife, conservation and their local community.
Suitable for anyone over 16 living in Dorset, this training scheme is aimed at all abilities. Each unit of the programme is accredited by AQA, with a certificate awarded on completion of the unit. Units available are grouped into four areas: Wildlife gardener, practical conservationist, teaching and engagement and campaigner.
The Great Heath Team’s Community Conservation Officer, Katie Wilkinson, is leading the scheme for DWT. She said, “The wildlife champions programme is really flexible, so even people already in a full time job can achieve their goals. The units are grouped into categories to give the champion some focus, or the units can be mixed depending on capabilities and interest. In previous years, wildlife champions have told us that they enjoy being with like-minded people on the course, developing a hobby and diversifying their CV. We are looking forward to welcoming the class of 2016!”
Units include butterfly identification, marine conservation, hedgelaying, leading a guided walk, managing volunteers, communicating through the media or planning and wildlife law. To become a fully accredited ‘Wildlife Champion’, 6 units will need to be completed. It is hoped that once fully accredited, Wildlife Champions will work within their local community helping to manage local wildlife areas and enthuse others to care for wildlife in Dorset.
Training will take place in a variety of locations in Dorset, including DWT’s HQ near Dorchester, and the Urban Wildlife Centre in Corfe Mullen, Poole. Assessment will include completion of tasks, and question worksheets. There are no exams.
It costs £60 to take part in the training scheme, which can be completed between September 2016 – June 2017. If you are interested, you can register at: https://www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife_champions. If you have any questions, contact Katie at [email protected] or phone 01202 692033.
