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 nationally recognised course, that is 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.
Shooting and Hunting Academy is registered with the' UK Register of Learning Providers' (UKRLP) which means it is a recognised legal entity in the UK as verified by a recognised legal source and according to UKRLP standards. Registration Number UKPRN 10094027

COURSES

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.
Read more  

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  

Large Game Meat Hygiene Course

Certificated course that complies with Food Standard Agency (FSA) guidelines that enable candidates to become trained hunters and place large game meat on the market for human consumption.
Read more  

MASTERCLASSES

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WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY ABOUT US

I had wanted to do a deer stalking course for years, but never found the time. The online version of the PDS1 was perfect and allowed me to finally complete the course at my convenience.
R. Dukka
With my PDS1 in hand I finally had the confidence to successfully apply for my own Firearms Certificate, thanks to Peter and the team.
J. Richards

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.

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 which goal is to raise funds to provide high-protein nutritious meals to those in need.

Over the last few years Shooting & Hunting Academy helped to provide over 3000 meals to those in need . You can do it too!

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