Feb 23
Caroline van der Vorm Becomes the First Person and First Woman to Complete the DMC3 Qualification
We are incredibly proud to announce that Karolien van der Vorm has become the first person — and the first woman — to complete the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3), the highest level deer management qualification currently available in the UK.
The formal presentation took place at the British Shooting Show, where the certificate was awarded by Peter S Jones, CEO of Shooting and Hunting Academy, alongside Niall Rowantree, an industry ambassador, lifelong deerstalker and winner of the 2026 British Shooting Show Award for Outstanding Contribution to Conservation. While the event provided a fitting national platform, the true significance lies in Karolien's journey and what this achievement represents for professional deer management in the UK.
The Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3) was developed to raise standards across the UK deer management sector. As deer population increases and environmental pressures grow, there is a clear need for advanced, accredited deer management training that goes beyond basic field competence. DMC3 is designed for experienced deer managers who wish to demonstrate the highest level of professional capability in sustainable deer management, strategic deer control, and long-term countryside stewardship.
Karolien's decision to undertake DMC3 demonstrates a strong commitment to professional development and raising industry standards. Her achievement validates not only her field experience, but also her ability to apply structured planning, evidence-based decision-making, and strategic thinking to modern deer management challenges.
What motivated you to enrol on the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3), and why did you feel it was important to achieve the highest level deer management qualification in the UK?
I have always been enthusiastic and curious about further training within the professional hunting and shooting industry. Continuous development is important to me, and I actively seek opportunities to strengthen my knowledge and maintain high professional standards. In 1999, I achieved the highest Dutch hunting qualifications through the KNJV Royal Dutch Hunting Federation, which are recognised as some of the most comprehensive in Europe. When I reviewed the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3), I was impressed by the depth and structure of the programme. Beyond meeting formal training requirements, I particularly valued the additional verification process.
The DMC3 goes significantly deeper into the professional deer management process. It requires detailed evidence, structured assessment, and more personalised one-to-one input. For me, achieving the highest level deer management qualification in the UK was about validating my experience through an advanced, accredited framework and continuing to raise my own professional standards.
Powerful message about the future of the sector
Importantly, Karolien becoming the first woman to complete DMC3 sends a powerful message about the future of the sector. Professional deer management, deer stalking, and wildlife management have traditionally been male-dominated industries. Her success highlights the growing presence and leadership of women in advanced deer management roles and reinforces that excellence in this field is defined by competence, integrity, and dedication — not gender.
How does it feel to be the first person — and the first woman — to complete DMC3, and what advice would you give to others considering this advanced deer management certification?
Write your awesome label here.
I am not naturally competitive, but I do enjoy achieving and progressing. Becoming the first person to complete DMC3 is something I am proud of — and being the first woman makes it even more meaningful. It feels like a double celebration, not just for me personally, but for all the women involved in the hunting and shooting community.
I would absolutely recommend the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 to both professional and recreational deer stalkers. Many people tend to focus on harvesting one or two particular deer species, but DMC3 encourages you to broaden your experience, work with different species, and better understand their behaviours and management requirements.
The qualification also helps you gain a deeper understanding of the land and environments you work on — whether that is agricultural ground, forestry, urban fringes, or private estates. It improves awareness of environmental impact, agricultural considerations, urban pressures, and how to operate responsibly beyond your usual stalking areas.
The qualification also helps you gain a deeper understanding of the land and environments you work on — whether that is agricultural ground, forestry, urban fringes, or private estates. It improves awareness of environmental impact, agricultural considerations, urban pressures, and how to operate responsibly beyond your usual stalking areas.
DMC3 is an investment in yourself. It adds professional value and I have no doubt will become a benchmark when accessing estates, forestry, commercial, residential, or agricultural land. While formal qualifications may not yet be mandatory across the industry, they are increasingly expected, and more deer syndicates and estates are now requiring recognised certification.
Most importantly, it supports ethical, sustainable deer management and high welfare standards — which should always be at the heart of what we do.
This milestone is more than a personal accomplishment. It sets a benchmark for what the highest level deer management certification in the UK should represent: professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to sustainable wildlife management.
Karolien van der Vorm has not only completed the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 — she has helped define the standard for those who will follow.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Professional Deer Management?
If you are an experienced deer manager, estate professional, wildlife consultant, or serious deer stalker looking to progress to the highest level of deer management, the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 (DMC3) provides a clear, structured pathway.
Now is the time to raise standards, demonstrate professional competence, and be part of the next generation shaping sustainable deer management in the UK.
You can learn more about the Deer Management Certificate Level 3 HERE
Looking to get into Deer stalking? Enrol today!
Proficient Deer Stalker PDS1 Course
PDS1 is LANTRA and UKRS accredited course delivered by a trusted provider of deer stalker training. The PDS1 is nationally recognised Deer Management course that delivers 'Trained Hunter' status.
Proficient Deer Stalker PDS2 Course
Deer Stalking Qualification that is designed to follow on from the foundation skills achieved during the PDS1. The level 2 course consists of two elements, a taught element delivered online and a practical demonstration of skill by the candidate in the field. Read more
Who we are
The Shooting & Hunting Academy is a UK Registered Learning Provider and LANTRA and UK Rural Skills Approved Training Provider. The academy hosts key accredited courses for those involved in shooting, hunting, the management of wildlife, and the safe and effective dispatch of pests and vermin. The academy also delivers specialist Masterclasses, delivered by leading shooting and environmental experts.