Shooting & Hunting Academy
The UK's leading online training platform for those involved in shooting, hunting, the use of firearms and the management of wildlife
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Welcome to the Academy
The Shooting & Hunting Academy is an online training platform that provides a host of Courses and Masterclasses, delivered by leading industry experts.
Through the Academy, shooters, hunters and those involved in the use of firearms, can gain an in depth and unique level of training that enables them to shoot better, behave more effectively in the field, up their strike rate and learn new skills.
Crucially, for those new to deer stalking, the Academy also offers the 'Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate Level 1' (PDS1) a deer management certificate (DMC) that is nationally recognised and accredited by both LANTRA and UK Rural Skills (UKRS).
Welcome to the Shooting & Hunting Academy, an easy access, convenient platform delivering quality, structured training at a time and place that suits you.
Through the Academy, shooters, hunters and those involved in the use of firearms, can gain an in depth and unique level of training that enables them to shoot better, behave more effectively in the field, up their strike rate and learn new skills.
Crucially, for those new to deer stalking, the Academy also offers the 'Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate Level 1' (PDS1) a deer management certificate (DMC) that is nationally recognised and accredited by both LANTRA and UK Rural Skills (UKRS).
Welcome to the Shooting & Hunting Academy, an easy access, convenient platform delivering quality, structured training at a time and place that suits you.
COURSES
Proficient Deer Stalker PDS1 Course
Proficient Deer Stalker PDS2 Course
Large Game Meat Hygiene Course
MASTERCLASSES
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT US
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. I am completely new to deer stalking, is the PDS1 course for me?
A. Absolutely, the course is perfect for you and has been designed to help complete beginners become proficient deer stalkers. It is also a crucial first step in obtaining a Firearms license to shoot deer.
Q. What is the difference between DSC1 and PDS1?
A. Both qualifications are excellent and broadly equivalent. However, the PDS1 is accredited by both LANTRA and UK Rural Skills (UKRS), the UK's leading awarding bodies in land-based industries. The PDS1 also includes a 'Large Game Meat Hygiene Certificate whilst the DSC1 does not.
Unlike the DSC1, which is delivered in a classroom setting and delivered on specific dates, the PDS1 can be achieved through online training and one-to-one instruction at a time and place that suits you.
Unlike the DSC1, which is delivered in a classroom setting and delivered on specific dates, the PDS1 can be achieved through online training and one-to-one instruction at a time and place that suits you.
Q. I have an existing Firearms Certificate (FAC) but want to get a variation to be able to shoot deer, will the PDS1 help with this?
A. For those who already know how to shoot but wish to seek a variation to be able to hunt deer, the PDS1 Certificate is the perfect way to make the transition. It imparts safety and best practice guidelines, and by completing a course of study delivered by a reputable, established provider, helps demonstrate to the Police that you have taken the matter seriously.
Q. I am visiting the UK from abroad and wish to understand what is expected of me before I arrive, does the PDS1 help with this?
A. Yes, its perfect for those who are visiting the UK to hunt, you can complete the course online prior to arriving in the UK, that way you’ll understand the etiquette, how to behave and the law prior to arriving.
Q. Is the PDS1 an established and recognised qualification?
A. Accredited by both the UK's leading awarding bodies in land-based industries - LANTRA and UKRS, the PDS1 is a nationally recognised course that has been running for over a decade and has been awarded to hundreds of candidates. It is also recognised by the National Rifle Association (NRA), the Police and countless Landowners.
Q. Having completed the PDS1 course, will I need to get my own FAC and rifle before I can go stalking?
A. No. UK law provides a legal provision called the ‘Estate Rifle’ which means that you are permitted to use your stalkers rifle when hunting in his presence.
Giving back is an integral part of who we are...
Country Food Trust is a fabulous charity whose goal is to raise funds in order to provide high-protein nutritious meals to those in food poverty.
Over the last few years Shooting & Hunting Academy helped to provide over 3000 meals to those in need . You can help!
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