An Introduction to Fossils

In this introduction to Fossils we will focus on the Palaeontology of the South East. We will also explore how fossils can be used to answer questions about the history of life on earth, and help unravel geological time.

During the morning session, we will cover the following topics:

• What are Fossils?
• Fossils and Geological Mapping (Hands on Session with Specimens)
• Fossils and the History of Life on Earth with Local Fossils (PowerPoint presentation/Videos/Hands on Session)

We will then break for lunch and there will be an opportunity to discuss and identify any fossil finds you may have brought with you.

After lunch, we will discuss how to collect, record and preserve fossils. We will then carry out some 'Fossil Moulding', for which a selection of moulds of local fossils will be provided for casting in plaster to paint and take home.

By the end of the course, you should have a basic understanding of the following:

• Different types of fossils
• How fossils are used to understand the history of life on earth and answer geological questions
• How to collect, document and preserve fossils

Suitable for Beginners and Improvers

Led by Philip Hadland, local Fossil Expert and Author of Fossils of Folkestone, Kent, Phil has worked on some high profile fossil related museum projects in Kent and beyond. He has also published new insights into local geology and palaeontology in peer reviewed journals.

Please note that the actual venue for this course is Oak Lodge, a cottage close to the visitor centre at Sevenoaks Wildife Reserve. If you look directly at the visitor centre and then go right, you will see a large circular sign on the front of Oak Lodge itself. See also google maps for the location of Oak Lodge.

Parking charges apply at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve car park but this is included with your ticket if you book at least 72 hours in advance. To receive free parking you must email the correct number plate of the car you will be using to [email protected] at least 72 hours before the event start time. Please include the date of the event you have booked and the name the booking was made in as part of your email. If you are booking within 72 hours of the event, or do not confirm your number plate by this time, you will need to pay for parking on the day.

For further information, please visit the Study Days page of the Kent Wildlife Trust website.

Host or Publisher Kent Wildlife Trust - Education & Training