This course is designed to help ecologists confidently recognise the ‘top ten plant families’, the groups that make up around 80% of the species most commonly encountered in the field.

The day will begin in the classroom, with structured, hands-on examination of specimens to help you identify and understand key family characteristics. You will then take these skills into the Wilder Doddington landscape, practising the use of botanical keys and applying your knowledge in real survey conditions.

By starting with simple observation and gradually introducing technical terminology in context, the course builds both understanding and confidence. These skills are fundamental to botanical work, including surveys for UKHab and the National Vegetation Classification (NVC).

This course will cover

• Recognising the key features of commonly encountered plant families
• Using simple observation to distinguish family characteristics
• Understanding botanical terminology in context
• Practising the use of botanical keys
• Applying identification skills in the Wilder Doddington landscape
• Understanding how these skills support UKHab and NVC survey work

This course is suitable for amateur and professional botanists, naturalists and ecologists.

It will suit a range of amateur and professional roles, from students through to ecologists, ecological consultants, conservation officers and land managers, including wardens and rangers.

Prior knowledge

No prior knowledge or experience is required.

Some knowledge of UK flora would be helpful, as would a basic understanding of the different parts of a plant. Previous experience of using an identification key would be beneficial, but this will be covered as part of the course.

John Handley is the Director of CH Ecology and a highly respected botanist, trainer and ecological consultant.

Known for his clarity as a communicator and his ability to make complex botanical concepts accessible, John works with a wide range of organisations, delivering training, specialist advice and high-quality ecological surveys.

John’s career began in farming before he moved into the amenity sector, where he spent more than a decade as part of a contracts team. He later progressed to the role of Senior Technical Manager, gaining extensive experience in land management, vegetation and practical ecology.

Today, John is an independent, self-employed botanist working primarily with UK agencies and private organisations. His combination of technical expertise, field experience and engaging teaching style makes him a trusted figure for those seeking to improve their botanical skills or commission robust ecological assessments.

• Hand lens, if you have one
• Notebook and pencil
• Sensible footwear and clothing suitable for being outdoors
• Lunch
• Any botanical field guides you regularly use

The cost of the 1 day course is £120 per person.

Course Bundle: Book both Botanical Skills for Ecologists on 27 July and Introduction to Grasses on 28 July together for £200. To receive the discounted rate, please select the ‘2 course bundle’ticket option when booking.

Lunch and accommodation are not included.

Food can be purchased from the Farm Shop on the estate.

Tea and coffee will be provided during the day.

Accommodation may be available on the estate. Please visit www.doddingtonhall.com/holiday-cottages for further details.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached.

If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the cancellation 4 weeks before the course date.

If you book accommodation, we strongly recommend taking out insurance.

If you have any medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course accordingly.

Please email wilder@doddingtonhall.com if you have any questions.