Students get falconry qualification in 'UK first'

A college has announced it is now offering students a dedicated falconry qualification in what it called a "UK first".

Hadlow College in Kent said the new course gives pupils "practical and theoretical experience" with birds of prey, while working towards the nationally recognised RAPTOR Award.

It said that "traditionally, aspiring falconers trained directly with private training centres."

However, the college added there was a need to bring structured skills and career pathways into this "growing sector".

Evie Morrison, who has completed the course, told BBC Radio Kent she was "scared at the start".

"But now I feel really confident working with birds," she said.

Another alumni, Maddi Humphrey, says she has been offered a job at the Willows Bird of Prey Centre, which is partnering with Hadlow College to deliver the course.

"I never thought I could have a career in falconry," she said.

Talia Hassan, manager at Willows Bird of Prey Centre, said the sector had "expanded significantly" over the past decade.

"Experiences, demonstrations, pest control and breeding, to name a few, [are] all driving demand for skilled practitioners," she said.

The first cohort of students is set to put on a display in April.

The course, which is delivered in six-week blocks in Sevenoaks, covers "all aspects of falconry", according to the college.

This includes husbandry, legal requirements, safety procedures, and free-flying birds.

Students will work in groups of 12, with three birds.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.