I currently know nothing about Marine Fish ID but I would like to learn, is this course suitable for me?
Yes this course is perfect for beginners as well as those with some prior experience. A basic understanding of biology and an interest in marine fish is helpful.
I have some knowledge of Marine fish and can ID a few of the basic species, will I be able to improve my skills on this course?
Yes absolutely, this course is aimed at those that want to learn or improve their Marine Fish ID skills.
Are there any recommended ID books I could buy before the course?
The main text that will be used on the course is “Key to the Fishes of Northern Europe” by Alwyn Wheeler. The book is unfortunately out of print, but second hand copies can be bought online. Reference material will be provided on the course.
What do I need to wear on the boat?
All personal protective equipment (PPE) is included. Lifejacket, hard-hat, and oilskins (waterproof trousers and jacket). If you have your own waterproof clothing then you are welcome to wear this instead. You will need to bring your own waterproof non-slip footwear – wellie boots are recommended. Be sure to bring a hat, warm clothes (in layers), thick boot socks and sunscreen.
What if the weather is too stormy to go out in the boat?
We can be flexible with the timetable so that we make the best of the weather available. We will do our best to cover all the course content and may provide alternative learning experiences. If the weather does mean we are unable to cover all the course material we will reschedule the sessions.
I’m not sure I am fit enough to work on a boat. Is it possible to speak with someone about my suitability for the course?
Yes, if you can e-mail events@mba.ac.uk we can arrange for someone to give you a call.
I have dietary requirements, will the included lunch be suitable?
Will there be hot drinks provided on the boat?
A selection of hot drinks will be able on the boat.
Is there a toilet on board the boat?
Yes, there is a toilet on the boat.
I have a medical condition I need to disclose before the course, how can I do this?
You will be sent a medical questionnaire prior to the course where you will be asked to provide details of any medical conditions or any medication you may need to carry with you aboard Sepia. This is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all course participants. This information will be treated as confidential and destroyed once the course is over.
Will there be parking available?
There is no parking available at the venue itself but there are several pay and display carparks close to by as well as pay and display on street parking including
- Lambhay Hill Car Park, PL1 2NR
- Elphinstone Car Park, PL1 2NU
Parking meters accept either coin or card payment over the phone. If you have an access requirement and require parking please get in touch with us on events@mba.ac.uk and we will do our best to accomodate your need.
I work for an organisation and we would like to have this course run bespoke for our employees/students, is this possible?
Yes we can run these courses bespoke for organisations. Please get in touch with our Training and Events team on events@mba.ac.uk and they can discuss this with you.
If I am unable to attend what is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel your place on a course please do this through MyMBA. If you cancel a course or event booking more than 30 days before the start date of the event you are eligible to receive a full refund minus an admin fee equal to 5% of the course fee that you have paid. If you cancel a course or event booking within 30 days of the start date you will NOT be eligible for a refund. For more information please see the terms and conditions which are available on booking.
Will I receive accreditation for participating in the course?
All participants will receive a certificate as proof of participation in the course.