Education is one of the most important tools in the long-term conservation of amphibians and reptiles in the UK and globally.

By raising awareness, enhancing knowledge and encouraging people to take action, we can make real steps toward conserving our amphibian and reptile species. For these conservation efforts to be effective and lasting there needs to be equal access to educational opportunities, as well as chances to become involved in practical conservation work.

In terms of educational value, amphibians and reptiles can be important examples of key biological principles. A number of species are widespread and locally common, even in the most urban areas. Many of us have one of our first experiences in meeting wildlife with frogs, tadpoles, grass snakes or slow worms. These key moments can inspire a lifetime's involvement in appreciating and conserving wildlife.

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation has a long history of working with the education sector, from its previous entity The HCT. Our staff engage with many levels of the education system, from children and teachers in schools, through to disadvantaged young people and those with learning difficulties, to universities and higher education institutes.

Each year ARC is able to accommodate a small number of school work placements and university work placements. Support can also be given to those who want to do a Undergraduate or Masters’ degree dissertation on reptiles or amphibians. We are also involved in developing training for people working at different levels within the conservation sector.

Amphibian and Reptile Conservation's education projects are designed to engage wide and diverse audiences, learning from the people we work with as much as we hope they can learn from us.

Educational resources: 

Amphibian ID Guide (PDF)

Reptile ID Guide (PDF)

British Snakes poster (PDF)

Dragons in your Garden leaflet (PDF)

Amazing Animals, Brilliant Science; how DNA technology is being used to help save Scotland's wildlife

by Dr Pete Minting

The book includes a general introduction about DNA and how scientists use DNA technology to answer a huge variety of questions.