Professionals in the invasive weeds sector can now tap into a popular industry-recognised training programme online.

The Property Care Association has invested significant resources to develop the Online Surveyor Training: Management of Japanese knotweed programme into a digital format.

Bringing together all the convenience of online delivery without any impact on the quality of the training, the course features seven live training broadcasts, 15 recorded online learning videos and two interactive sessions, all delivered by professional trainers.

It also features a whole suite of additional and recommended learning materials, giving users an exceptional level of detail throughout the training period, which takes between five and six weeks to complete.

Jade Stocker, PCA training manager, said: “This online training will enable candidates to develop their surveying skills for Japanese knotweed and, similar to our classroom-based training, details the background, best practice and requirements involved in the assessment and management of Japanese knotweed and other common invasive weed species.

“The course is open to both PCA members and non-members and is aimed at those involved in and with some prior knowledge and experience of the identification, assessment and management of Japanese knotweed, and other common invasive species.

“This is a great way to access training as the remote format enables candidates to complete the modules at their own pace, either in an office or home environment.

“The course is also the perfect preparation for surveyors who wish to go on to take the Certificated Surveyor in Japanese knotweed (CSJK) examination.â€�

The course is divided into two modules. Module zero includes the legislation and environmental factors surrounding native and non-native plants, matters surrounding the control, herbicide treatment and disposal of plants and site biosecurity, as well as site investigation, risk assessment, and reporting.

Module one investigates the ecology and impacts associated with Japanese knotweed, as well as its identification, management plans, mapping and herbicide application.

Module one also goes in-depth into controlling Japanese knotweed and looks at the challenges presented by alternative methods.

Full details about the training can be found at https://www.property-care.org/training-qualifications/pca-surveyor-training/control-eradication-japanese-knotweed/online/