BASC and Forestry Commission fund young deer stalkers

Aspiring deer stalkers aged 17 to 30 can now apply for up to £350 towards their first deer stalking qualification, under a new funding scheme launched on 28 July by BASC and the Forestry Commission. The deer stalking funding is open to applicants living in England, and applications close on 16 August.

BASC has been asked to lead the project, which is aimed squarely at the cost barrier that stops many young people taking their first step into deer management.

Who can apply for the deer stalking funding?

Applicants must be resident in England and aged between 17 and 30 at the time of applying. The funding can be put towards a range of entry-level courses, including BASC’s DSC1 online theory course as well as options from other training providers across the industry.

The Deer Stalking Certificate 1, the sector’s standard entry qualification, covers safe rifle handling, deer identification, law and best practice, and is the usual first rung for anyone aiming to stalk professionally or manage deer on their own ground.

Spaces are limited. Once applications close on 16 August, successful applicants will be drawn at random and their details passed to their chosen training provider. Selected candidates must complete their training before April 2027.

Why does deer management need new stalkers?

England’s deer population is growing, and the pressure it puts on woodland, farmland and the welfare of the deer themselves has pushed recruitment up the agenda across the sector.

Trained stalkers underpin the humane, professional management the public expects, and the skills that come with a first qualification, from safe shot placement to carcass handling, are in growing demand as deer numbers rise.

James Sutcliffe, deer advisor at BASC, said: “Deer management needs new people coming through, and cost is often what stops them starting. England’s deer population is growing, and without enough trained stalkers to manage it, we risk more damage to woodland, crops and the deer themselves.”

“This funding removes a real barrier and gives young stalkers a proper route into the qualifications they need. We’d encourage anyone who’s been thinking about deer stalking but held off because of the cost to put their name forward before applications close.”

What happens next

Applications are open now on the BASC website and close on 16 August 2026. Successful applicants will be notified after the random draw and must book and complete their chosen course before April 2027. Details and the application form are on BASC’s deer stalking training funding page, linked below.