BTCV Handbooks Online

Book:	Local Action
Chapter:	Conservation - a learning experience
Section:	Courses for developing skills
Metadata:	Details	Buy this book

Anyone taking on more responsibility will need training. Training courses are broadly of three types:

On-site group training

As your group develops you may wish to run your own training sessions. These may be about working techniques but might also be about the habitat that you will be working on, or simply about how the group works. You may wish to bring in an instructor to help with these sessions, but make sure they are briefed in advance on what you expect them to do and what sort of group you are.

BTCV is able to offer a range of training through the BTCV Institute. You should ask your local office how they could help. A local ranger, or an experienced, 'retired' volunteer could also contribute to your group's development. Avoid launching into work like this if you have not been trained yourself and lack the confidence to run such a course. Training is a skill like any other. You may be able to share costs, facilities and resources with other groups in your area.

Think about the number of people you can have on a course. It may only be safe to have a few people learning practical skills, while an introductory event could take many more. Consider running more in-depth courses over a whole weekend, to enable you to cover the topic thoroughly. Balance the programme with indoor and outdoor sessions.

Put someone who preferably does not have another demanding position in the group in charge of organising the course and taking all the bookings.

Locally organised courses

Local training events may also be organised by BTCV to respond to specific needs. These are often shared between several groups in an area and are more convenient for those who cannot travel far or stay away from home overnight. Details of courses organised in your area are available from your local BTCV office. They may also be able to put you in touch with other organisations which can meet your training needs.

Nationally advertised courses

Technical skills courses are an important part of BTCV's training programme and a glance through one of the course lists will show the enormous variety on offer. All members of groups that are formally linked to BTCV receive discounts. Courses range from hedgelaying and woodland management to first aid and photography. Natural Break holidays are also a good way with anyone who can spend time away from home to acquire skills.