Overview
The Field Studies Council (FSC) is a UK-based educational charity founded in 1943 with a vision to provide opportunities for people of all ages to study plants, animals, and the natural environment in situ.
FSC aims to create a world where everyone feels connected to nature, enjoys its benefits, and makes informed choices to protect it.
Mission and approach
FSC’s mission is to help people learn about the environment and make informed decisions that support conservation and sustainable practices.
Through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences, the organisation encourages engagement with the natural world and fosters environmental stewardship.
FSC believes that direct interaction with nature enhances understanding and appreciation, providing the knowledge and skills needed to protect ecosystems while supporting personal growth and wellbeing.
What they do
FSC delivers high-quality outdoor learning opportunities for individuals, schools, families, and communities. Programmes cover a range of topics, including ecology, biology, geography, and environmental conservation, and are designed to be accessible to people of all ages and interests.
Participants engage in activities such as field studies, wildlife surveys, ecological research, and conservation projects, gaining practical knowledge and skills while fostering a connection with nature.
Expeditions and participation opportunities
FSC offers diverse opportunities for participants to engage with the outdoors, including:
- School and youth group field trips
- Adult courses and workshops on ecology and conservation
- Volunteer programmes supporting habitat management and wildlife surveys
- Short courses, residentials, and summer schools for immersive learning experiences
Through these programmes, participants develop practical skills, scientific knowledge, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural environment.
Last updated: December 2025.