Trees in summer
Course Code: HS264
Duration: 3 sessions (over 3 weeks)
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What is the course about?
Do you want to learn how to recognise some common trees? This practical course is ideal for those new to trees and provides a good introduction to the enthusiast. Get to know what clues to look for when identifying deciduous and evergreen trees and their names, plus helpful books and guide sheets.
What will we cover?
We start by learning the important features to look for, including bark, twigs, leaves, outline, seeds and fruit.
You will also learn about common and botanical names of trees and be given guidance on helpful books and publications.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Recognise at least 15 species of trees found in Regent’s Park
- Be familiar with the basic key clues to tree identification
- List the relative benefits of using common and botanical names for trees
- Pursue your own interest in trees with confidence.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course and does not assume any previous study or reading, although you will need a reasonable standard of English to keep up with the course. An interest in trees and enthusiasm for learning more are the only prerequisites. As with most courses, an open mind and willingness to listen and observe are more important than specific levels of skill.
You will need to be able to stand for periods of up to 15 to 20 minutes and be comfortable with being outside as the walks take place whatever the weather. Please wear suitable clothing and strong outdoor, nonslip shoes
You will need to be confident to travel independently to meet the tutor at Regent’s Park. You will be sent details of the meeting point nearer the time of the course.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
This is a practical, participative course which takes place onsite at Regent’s Park. There are toilets enroute and we will have a coffee break in the café, or bring a flask.
Please note: tree apps are not covered.
Your tutor, Letta Jones (MA), is a Lecturer in Horticulture and Garden History. She taught at Capel Manor and Birkbeck Colleges for 15 years and is now a tutor at City Lit and the Chelsea Physic Garden. Her out of London courses are run at the Glenthorne Centre, Claridge House and Holehird, for the Lakeland Horticultural Society.
Please note: Tree apps are not covered.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
A notebook and pencil will be useful.
If you have a tree book or a hand lens already, please bring them along.
Please note that dogs are not allowed (except for assistance dogs).
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Check the City Lit website for other Nature courses.
Letta Jones, MA, is a Lecturer in Horticulture and Garden History. She taught at Capel Manor College and and Birkbeck, University of London for 15 years. She now teaches classes at the City Lit, Marlborough College Summer School, Woodbrooke,Denman, Glenthorne and Knuston Hall. She is part of the Garden History Grapevine/Gardens Trust group which offers introductory and advanced courses in garden history www.gardenhistorygrapevine.wordpress.com. A guide at the Chelsea Physic Garden for 18 years, Letta now teaches on their education programme. She is a Green Flag Park judge and she also leads her own garden study tours abroad.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
