Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the United Kingdom (UK): A Complete Guide for Aspiring Falconers

Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the United Kingdom (UK): A Complete Guide for Aspiring Falconers If you’re serious about falconry in the UK, this guide covers everything you need to know — from the best falconry schools and training centers to certification, legal requirements, and what to expect from professional courses. --- Introduction: Falconry in the UK — A Living Heritage Falconry in the United Kingdom is more than a sport — it’s a living tradition dating back over 4,000 years. Today, the UK remains one of the most respected countries in the world for falconry education, with a network of certified schools and training centers offering structured programs for beginners, hobbyists, and professional falconers alike. Whether you’re looking to fly your first Harris hawk or pursue a Raptor Award certification, the UK offers some of the most comprehensive falconry training available. --- Legal Requirements: What You Need to Start Falconry in the UK Before enrolling in any falconry course, it’s essential to understand the legal framework: • No formal license is required to practice falconry in the UK, but you must comply with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006. • You’ll need a suitable aviary (mews) that meets welfare standards for housing birds of prey. • CITES documentation is required for certain species. • Beginners are strongly encouraged to train under a qualified falconer or through an accredited course. --- Top Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the UK 1. The Falconry School – Gloucestershire Founded by renowned falconer Ben Long, The Falconry School is one of the UK’s most respected institutions. It offers: • Beginner Courses (1–2 days): Covers handling, equipment, and basic training. • Raptor Award Certification: Nationally recognized qualification. • Advanced and Bespoke Courses: Tailored for experienced falconers. • Professional Mentoring Scheme: For those pursuing falconry as a career. Training is hands-on, with access to a wide variety of birds including Harris hawks, falcons, and owls. Courses run from February to November due to weather constraints. 2. Raptor Awards – National Network Raptor Awards is not a school but a certifying body that partners with falconry centers across the UK. They offer: • Level 2 Bird of Prey Management & Husbandry • Level 3 Advanced Falconry • Online theory modules combined with practical assessments at approved centers • National Occupational Standards for falconers This is the UK’s only quality-assured falconry certification, ideal for those seeking professional credentials 3. The Raptor Foundation – Cambridgeshire Known for its conservation work and public education, the Raptor Foundation also offers: • Five-Day Falconry Course (£400–£520): Includes one-on-one instruction, optional Raptor Award certification. • Curriculum includes:• Bird housing and equipment • Feeding and nutrition • Health monitoring • Legal compliance • Training and manning techniques • Weight management This course is suitable for both beginners and intermediate falconers. 4. The British School of Falconry – Scotland Located at the Gleneagles Hotel, this school offers luxury falconry experiences and training: • Introductory sessions for tourists and beginners • Half-day and full-day courses • Focus on traditional falconry with Harris hawks and falcons • Emphasis on ethical handling and conservation Though not a certification center, it’s ideal for those seeking a high-quality introduction to the art. --- What to Expect from a Falconry Course Most UK falconry schools follow a structured format: • Theory: Bird biology, species identification, legal responsibilities, and ethics. • Practical Training: Handling, fitting equipment (jesses, leashes, hoods), manning, and flying. • Health & Welfare: Feeding, weight control, parasite management, and first aid. • Facilities: Expect on-site aviaries, flying fields, and classrooms. Courses range from half-day experiences to multi-week professional programs. Some schools offer mentorships and apprenticeships, which are invaluable for long-term development. --- Equipment and Costs To begin falconry, you’ll need: • A suitable bird of prey (commonly Harris hawks for beginners) • Housing (mews and weathering area) — must meet DEFRA guidelines • Essential gear: glove, leash, jesses, swivel, perch, weighing scales, telemetry (optional) • Initial investment: £1,500–£3,000+ depending on bird and equipment Most schools provide equipment during training. However, if you plan to keep a bird, you’ll need to invest in your own setup. --- Why Choose a Certified Training Center? Choosing an accredited falconry school ensures: • Compliance with UK animal welfare laws • Access to experienced instructors • Hands-on training with multiple species • Pathways to certification (e.g., Raptor Awards) • Networking with the falconry community Avoid informal or unregulated courses — they may not meet legal or ethical standards. --- Falconry in the UK: A Community and a Calling Falconry in the UK is supported by a strong community of clubs and associations, including: • The British Falconers’ Club (BFC) — the largest and oldest falconry club in the UK • Scottish Falconers Club • Welsh Hawking Club Membership provides access to field meets, mentorship, and legal guidance. Many clubs also require proof of training or experience, reinforcing the value of formal education. --- Final Thoughts Falconry is not a hobby to be taken lightly — it’s a lifestyle rooted in discipline, respect for nature, and centuries of tradition. The UK offers some of the finest falconry schools and training centers in the world, with structured programs, expert instructors, and a clear path to certification. Whether you’re a beginner dreaming of your first bird or a seasoned falconer seeking formal credentials, investing in proper training is not just recommended — it’s essential.