Identification Trainers for the Future
Inspiring the next generation of UK wildlife experts
Are you passionate about understanding and protecting the UK’s wildlife? If so, our innovative training programme may be for you. Find out what’s involved and how to apply.
The challenge
There has never been a greater need to document, monitor and understand changes in the UK’s wildlife. Yet the number of people with the skills to survey and accurately identify species, handle and preserve reference specimens, and share their skills with others is declining.
Be part of the solution
Identification Trainers for the Future is a new work-based training programme for individuals who would like to develop a career in the UK biodiversity sector. It aims to address the critical and growing shortage of wildlife identification and recording skills.
The programme is led by the Museum in partnership with the Field Studies Council and National Biodiversity Network Trust.
What we offer:
- Fifteen 12-month traineeships, delivered over the next three years.
- A work-based training programme that will provide you with the knowledge, confidence and skills to:
- understand and communicate the value of biological recording
- survey and identify a wide range of UK species groups
- train others, so that you can help reverse the decline in biological recording
- A tax-free bursary of £16,500 for each trainee, to cover living costs.
The scheme is generously supported by the Heritage Lottery Funds Skills for the Future programme.
Could this be for you?
To find out what our trainees will be doing and learn more about the programme, see our information sheet PDF (582.0 KB).
The next round of applications will open in November 2015, for traineeships starting in March 2016.
If you have any questions about the training programme, email us.
Coming soon
Our first five trainees start in March 2015. Watch this space for updates on their progress.
