Feb 16

British Shooting Show 2026: Growing Demand for Accredited Deer Management Qualifications

The British Shooting Show was, without question, one of the most dynamic and energising events the countryside sector has seen in recent years. From the moment the doors opened, the atmosphere was electric. The aisles were busy, the conversations were meaningful, and there was a genuine sense that the industry is evolving and moving forward. Whether you attended as an exhibitor, a professional within the sector, or an enthusiastic visitor, there was a shared feeling of momentum, pride, and progress.
Above: Peter S Jones guest speaker at the British Shooting Show discussing Deer Management Training and the DMC Level 3 Qualification.  

A Noticeable Shift: Serious Interest in Accredited Qualifications

One of the most striking trends this year was the number of experienced, professional deer stalkers who approached us to discuss formal qualifications.

Many told us they had been stalking for decades. They had the field experience. They had the knowledge. But they had never pursued an officially recognised deer management qualification.

Now, with increasing environmental scrutiny, evolving land-use expectations, and ongoing developments such as Scotland’s Environment Bill, there is a growing understanding that experience alone is no longer enough. The sector is clearly shifting toward structured, accredited deer management training that demonstrates competence, accountability, and professional standards.

We had more conversations than ever about:
- Accredited deer management qualifications
- Professional recognition within the industry
- Access requirements for estates and forestry
- Future-proofing careers in deer management
- The progression pathway to the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3)
It is clear that deer management in the UK is becoming more standards-driven — and professionals want to be ahead of that curve.

Peter S Jones on Stage: Raising the Standard

A real highlight of the show was Peter Stephen Jones taking to the stage as a guest speaker.
Peter spoke about the future of deer management training in the UK and the importance of structured, accredited pathways. He discussed how qualifications are no longer just about entry-level knowledge — they are about demonstrating professional competence, strategic understanding, and sustainable land stewardship.

Particular focus was given to the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3) — the highest level deer management qualification currently available in the UK. Peter outlined how DMC3 reflects modern expectations of deer managers: evidence-based decision-making, ethical and humane deer control, production of a comprehensive Deer Management Plan, and accountability in both invasive and non-invasive species management.

Looking AheadAs Scotland’s deer management framework continues to evolve, one thing is clear: demonstrating competence through recognised training is becoming increasingly important.

For Scottish stalkers, beginning with PDS1 and progressing to PDS2 offers a recognised, accessible, and future-ready pathway — one that fits the realities of rural Scotland while meeting modern expectations around deer management.

High standards matter. Accessibility matters too. PDS1 and PDS2 deliver both.