Proficient Deer Stalking Course – PDS1

The PDS1 is a LANTRA and UKRS ‘Accredited’ deer management qualification that is recognised by the Forestry Commission, Forestry England & NatureScot. Available online, the course delivers ‘Trained Hunter’ status and may be used for ‘Fit & Competent’ registration.

LANTRA & UKRS

The Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate PDS1 is a nationally recognised Deer Management Qualification, that has been accredited by the UK’s largest, land-based awarding bodies; LANTRA and UK Rural Skills (UKRS) and is recognised by the Forestry Commission, Forestry England and in Scotland by NatureScot, where the PDS1 & PDS2 Certificates can be used to apply for ‘Fit & Competent’ registration.

A few more words about the PDS1 Certificate

Accredited by both LANTRA and UK Rural Skills (UKRS) and recognised by the Forestry Commission and NatureScot, the excellent ‘Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate’ (PDS1) enables beginners to achieve ‘Trained Hunter’ status, at a time and place that suits, through the  completion of an online theory course and practical assessment in the field.

Through a series of online modules, classes and exams delivered by a professional deer stalker and ‘LANTRA Approved Training Provider’, candidates are guided through the PDS1 syllabus.

The PDS1 Course serves to educate and inform candidates about both the theory and practical elements involved in becoming a trained hunter, such as safety, legislation, marksmanship and rifle handling. Offered with the course is a ‘Large Game Meat Hygiene Certificate’ that complies with FSA Guidelines for placing large game meat on the market for human consumption.

Having completed the theory element of the deer management certificate online, candidates are awarded a PDS1 Certificate verifying what they have learnt.

To compliment the PDS1 theory with the practical assessment, it couldn’t be easier. We provide a list of Approved Verifiers (AV’s) in your area who will be able to sign off on the practical elements of the course*.

The Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate (PDS1) is an established, widely recognised and nationally available deer stalking course that not only empowers candidates, but is widely recognised as a crucial first step in obtaining a Firearm Certificate, or variation to an existing certificate to hunt and shoot deer.

Your instructor throughout the course is Peter S Jones a well recognised and highly experienced full-time, professional hunter. Read more about your instructor at the bottom of this page.

The PDS1 Certificate is perfect for the beginner or for anyone wishing to learn to hunt deer, and is an ideal way to make a start in the exciting world of deer stalking.

*NB: Additional rates apply for the Practical Assessment