We have available a range deer stalking qualifications and other training services provided to our syndicate members by our stalking managers.
Our highly experienced team operates a range of courses in-house. These are available to members and are offered at a special discounted price. Even if you have no experience whatsoever, we can put you on the mentoring scheme for new members or beginners; coupled with our support with Fire Arms Certificate acquisition, we provide the full package.
We encourage our members to improve their safety, etiquette and shooting ability. We offer “Shoot Hunt” courses that will teach you the basics of how best to approach game animals as well as general knowledge about what it takes to be successful at hunting.
Deer Stalking Certificate 1 (DSC1)
The DSC1 is the introductory, classroom-based, nationally recognised deer stalking qualification which introduces the novice stalker to deer identification, deer ecology and management, meat hygiene regulations, firearms and firearm safety, shooting technique and the law as it relates to stalking activities.
There are several good reasons and benefits for taking the DSC1. First, it provides participants with the skills and knowledge they need to stalk deer successfully. Second, it helps to build confidence in those who take the course, giving them the ability to safely and confidently pursue deer in the field.
Thirdly, although not essential, it is often a prerequisite qualification demanded by Police Firearms departments before they will permit a firearm to be authorised for deer stalking. Fourthly, many deer guides and landowners will insist the client possesses the DSC1 qualification and suitable insurance before they will agree to allow the individual out stalking as it demonstrates a minimum level of competence and knowledge.
DSC2 Courses
Candidates who register for the DSC 2 assessment are given three years to complete their evidence gathering.
This means that they must collect evidence of their skills in deer stalking and submit it to the DSC 2 electronic portfolio. The evidence can include photographs, videos, and written statements from witnesses. Once you have collected all of this evidence, you must submit it to the DSC 2 electronic portfolio for assessment.
Our deer stalking certificates are the perfect way for you to learn how to stalk deer in the field. Our experts will observe you and give you feedback so that you can pass the DSC2. We have numerous accredited witnesses to assist you.
You will learn advanced stalking techniques from a trained hunter and learn other factors such as advanced hygiene rules, ensuring meat is safe for human consumption.
Our trainer Mike is an approved witness for the DSC2 and can witness your stalk and gralloch for the qualification. If you are interested in using Mike as your Approved Witness, please contact him on 07831 098490 for more information.
How to Apply?
To register you interest in taking the full DSC1 or DSC2 course just contact Mike on 07831 098490.
Where are the Courses Held?
The DSC1 course is run online over 6x 2.5-hour sessions using Teams - one session a week on a weekday evening from 7 pm.
This saves you time and money on travelling and hotel bills. The maximum number of participants is 10 per course. Courses are run throughout the year when there is sufficient demand.
The course also includes a 1-day session at an indoor 100m rifle range where you can practice the shooting test with your own rifle or with one provided by the instructor.
The DSC1 examination is an all-day event held in Monmouth and includes 3 written papers, a deer identification test, a shooting test, and a safety test. If you pass all sections of the exam you are awarded the DSC1.
If you fail any section of the exam these can be retaken at another exam session within 3 years.
Shooting Training
The course is designed to ensure that you are fully compliant with safe practices and have a good working knowledge of what to expect on a variety of shoot ‘types’ and how to deal with game understand when to shoot and when not to shoot. We like it to be fun and we do expect you to ask questions with our knowledge and experience over many years we hope you go home with confidence and have good safety protocols to consider, as well as respect for your game.
Shotgun Training
We also run an in house 2 day shotgun course to improve your safety, etiquette, shooting ability and general knowledge of how to go forward for a safe hunting future.
Fly Fishing Training
A day of fly-fishing coaching off our Chairman Bob who is a national GAIA instructor. This is a special benefit to members.
This Course is free of charge, but is valued at £175 per day and a great way for Bob to meet new members
Butchery Courses
Our butchery courses include on-the-ground training by qualified stalkers, leading to DSC 1 & 2 qualifications
The courses are currently held in groups and are held in Devon, Shropshire, Denbighshire and Hampshire
- Basic sectioning down of prime cuts and what each cut can be used for (e.g. Fillets, steaks, diced, braising, venison, slow joints)
- Mincing ready for burgers/ sausages and meatballs.
- Drinks provided
- Venison burgers for lunch
Download the Training Handout Shoot Hunt Course here
Download the Steel Safari Hunting Challenge here
How Much Are The Courses?
Shooting.sh are able to provide its members with in-house DSC1 training. The course cost is £300 per person. This includes all learning materials - DSC1 manual, Deer identification DVD and Gralloching DVD. It also includes a one day range session and registration for the DSC1 exam.
For experienced stalkers who just wish to take the DSC1 exam with no other teaching support the cost is £175.
All our deer stalking syndicate members also receive £50 towards the costs of acquiring these licenses as a benefit of joining our syndicate.
