Jan 4

Why are Scottish Deer Stalkers choosing the PDS1

Laura M — pictured completing her PDS1 shooting assessment with Approved Verifier Davie Urquhart in Scotland. Her achievement represents more than a personal milestone. It reflects a growing shift in how deer stalking training is being delivered and accessed across Scotland — particularly at a time when expectations around competence and training are becoming increasingly important.
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PDS1 vs DSC1: A Practical Choice for Scotland
Laura said of her experience:
“If you have an option in the UK of a second course, people can make a choice between the DSC1 and PDS1. The bonus of the PDS1 is that it is far more user friendly.
In Scotland, to do the DSC1 people sometimes have to travel around three hours and stay over in a hotel near the training facility. With the logistics and time off from work, this can be difficult. The difference with the PDS1 is that you can do it online and then visit an Approved Verifier near you for the practical element.”

This highlights a key reality for many Scottish stalkers. Traditional, venue-based courses often require long journeys, overnight stays, and time away from work — challenges that are particularly pronounced in rural and remote areas.

By contrast, PDS1 and PDS2 combine online learning with local, in-person assessment. Candidates complete the theory at a time that suits them, then arrange their practical assessment with an Approved Verifier near their location. This approach removes unnecessary barriers while maintaining robust standards.

Why This Matters Under the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill
As the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill progresses, there is an increasing focus on deer management standards, accountability, and demonstrable competence for those who shoot deer.

While details continue to develop, it is clear that formal training and recognised qualifications will play a much greater role in how stalkers demonstrate that they are fit and competent to operate in Scotland.

PDS1 and PDS2 are already nationally accredited, delivered by an approved LANTRA, UKRS & UK Registered Learning provider, and recognised by NatureScot for Fit & Competent registration. Importantly, they achieve this in a way that is realistic for Scottish stalkers — without requiring excessive travel or time away from work.

As legislation evolves, qualifications that combine credibility with accessibility will be essential to ensure Scotland continues to have enough trained, competent deer managers on the ground.

Why PDS1 & PDS2 Are the Best Choice for Scottish Stalkers
For those living and stalking in Scotland, PDS qualifications offer clear advantages:
- Flexible online learning combined with local practical assessment
- Reduced travel, accommodation, and time-off costs
- Recognition within Scotland for Fit & Competent registration
 - Alignment with the future direction of Scottish deer legislation

At a time when standards are rising, PDS1 and PDS2 provide a practical, future-proof route that supports both deer welfare and the long-term sustainability of deer management in Scotland.

Supporting Scottish Stalkers
To actively support deer stalkers living and working in Scotland, we are offering 20% off PDS1 and PDS2 for Scottish candidates.

Use code: SCOTT25 at checkout. (Available for those with a Scottish Address)

This initiative reflects our commitment to raising standards while ensuring that cost and logistics do not become unnecessary barriers to training.
Funding Available Through Skills Hub Scotland
In addition to this discount, funding may be available for eligible candidates through Skills Hub Scotland.
Skills Hub funding is designed to support individuals working in land-based, rural, and environmental roles by helping to cover training costs. For eligible Scottish candidates, this funding can fully offset — the cost of completing PDS1 qualifications or reduce the cost of PDS2 qualification.
We encourage Scottish candidates to explore funding options alongside enrolment.
Looking Ahead
As 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.