Shooting Assessments
Deer Stalking Assessments
Proficient Deer Stalking (PDS) Level 1 & Level 2 practical assessments with approved verifier Cai Ap Bryn
Proficient Deer Stalking (PDS) Level 1 & Level 2 practical assessments with approved verifier Cai Ap Bryn
The Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate (PDS) is an accredited deer management qualification recognised by LANTRA, UK Rural Skills, the Forestry Commission, Forestry England, and NatureScot. It grants ‘Trained Hunter’ status and can be used for ‘Fit & Competent’ registration.
Cai Ap Bryn is an approved PDS verifier for the Shooting & Hunting Academy. Whether you are looking to get started in deer stalking, apply for a firearms certificate, or progress to advanced assessment, the journey starts here.
Interested in the qualification? Start with the online modules through the Shooting & Hunting Academy, then book your practical assessment with Cai.
View PDS Course & Online Modules
Practical shooting assessment for PDS Level 1 candidates
£75 + VAT per assessment
A one-hour session at a local rifle range in East Sussex. You must demonstrate to Cai that you can shoot straight and safely handle a rifle. This is the practical component required to complete your PDS Level 1 certification.
Prerequisite
You must have completed the PDS Level 1 online modules through the Shooting & Hunting Academy before booking your practical assessment.
Advanced practical deer stalking assessment - one-on-one with Cai
£100 + VAT per assessment
A hands-on, one-on-one deer stalking session with Cai. This is the advanced practical assessment where you demonstrate your deer stalking skills and knowledge, including correct stalking procedures, safety, gralloching techniques, and disease and illness identification. A minimum of two assessments is required to pass your PDS Level 2. Candidates should already have deer stalking and gralloching experience before booking - this is not a learning course, it is a formal assessment. Because this is a fully personalised session, availability is limited.
Prerequisites
You must have completed both the PDS Level 1 qualification (online modules + practical assessment) and the PDS Level 2 online modules before enquiring. Candidates should already have real-world deer stalking and gralloching experience - this assessment is for experienced stalkers looking to gain their formal qualification, not beginners.
Book your PDS Level 1 practical assessment on one of the dates below. Five one-hour slots per date — first come, first served. Select your slot and pay to secure your booking.
PDS Level 1 Practical Assessment
PDS Level 1 Practical Assessment
PDS Level 1 Practical Assessment
Can’t make these dates? Submit an enquiry and we’ll notify you when new dates are released.
£75 + VAT (£90) per assessment. Select your date, choose a one-hour slot, and pay securely to confirm your booking. First come, first served.
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Prerequisite: You must complete the online PDS Level 1 modules through the Shooting & Hunting Academy before your practical assessment.
PDS Level 2 is a one-on-one field assessment with Cai, arranged by personal appointment. £100 + VAT per session. Submit an enquiry and Cai will be in touch to arrange a date.
Eat Game Awards Winner (2024 + 2025), Champion of Champions Nominee (2026), Fieldsports Channel personality, and approved PDS verifier for the Shooting & Hunting Academy.
With years of hands-on experience in deer management across the UK, Cai brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to assessments. Whether you are a complete beginner looking to start your deer stalking journey or an experienced stalker ready for your Level 2, you are in safe and qualified hands.
Real images from assessments, outings, and deer management across the South-East
Stalking assessment footage
Assessment day in the field
Cai is not just an approved PDS verifier — he’s also the head chef behind Game and Flames. Our live-fire catering uses wild, sustainably sourced British game. It’s the same passion, the same respect for wildlife, and the same commitment to doing things properly.
