If you've taken a DNA test and want to understand how your results can help your family history research, this course is for you. Learn with DNA expert and tutor Michelle Leonard in our 8 session in-depth step-by-step DNA course. Runs from 4 September to 11 December 2025.
What is the DNA bootcamp?
The DNA Bootcamp is a live, online course taught by leading genetic genealogist Michelle Leonard. Designed for beginner to intermediate family historians, it will guide you through using your DNA test results to break down brick walls, confirm family lines, and discover new ancestors.
Each session is recorded, so if you miss one, you can catch up anytime.
You’ll also receive downloadable worksheets to help you apply what you’ve learned, a bumper selection of DNA guides and publications and access to a private discussion group where you can ask questions and share ideas with fellow learners.
The 8-part online course, tutored live by Michelle Leonard, will explore one key topic step by step — from understanding your DNA match list to working with DNA tools - the aim being that you can make more sense of your DNA test results and learn more about your family past.
Each session is recorded, so if you miss one, you can catch up anytime. You’ll also receive downloadable worksheets to help you apply what you’ve learned, and access to a private discussion group where you can ask questions and share ideas with fellow learners.
Your DNA Bootcamp Kit (worth over £80)
All delegates receive a fantastic kit of resources to support your learning:
- 📘 Print and digital edition of The DNA Bootcamp Workbook
- 📗 Print edition of DNA Discoveries guide
- 📙 DNA: A Guide for Family Historians book (Pen and Sword, 2025)
- 📝 Exclusive DNA Bootcamp notebook
- 👜 Family Tree tote bag
- 🎁 Keepsake gift box
Who is it for?
The course is perfect for you if:
- You’ve taken a DNA test with Ancestry
- You want to understand your results and learn how to use them in your research
- You’re curious about your match list but not sure how to interpret it
- You’d like to confirm family lines or explore unknown branches in your tree
No prior knowledge of genetic genealogy is needed. Whether you're completely new to DNA or looking to build on the basics, Michelle’s expert tuition will guide you at every step.
(MyHeritage, 23andMe & FamilyTreeDNA are covered to a degree, but to get the most from the course you need to have taken a DNA test with Ancestry).
What you’ll learn
Over 8 sessions, the course covers:
- 📌 how to interpret your results, from centimorgans to ethnicity estimates
- 📌 working with your match list, including clustering and shared matches
- 📌 building trees for matches and identifying common ancestors
- 📌 using DNA to confirm family lines and solve mysteries
- 📌 keeping organised DNA research notes
- 📌 best practices for ethical and responsible DNA research
Each topic is explained clearly and practically, with real-life examples and case studies.
How will the DNA Bootcamp help your family history research?
Learn from a trusted expert – Michelle Leonard is one of the UK’s leading DNA tutors and researchers
Joining the DNA Bootcamp, September 2025, will help you:
💡 Gain confidence – Understanding the key principles of DNA and how to apply them
💡 Break down brick walls – Using matches to identify unknown ancestors and solve family mysteries
💡 Add evidence to your tree – Confirming or disproving lines using genetic data
Make the most of your test – You’ve invested in DNA, now learn how to use it!
What past students say
Course details
- Course name: DNA Bootcamp
- Tutor: Michelle Leonard
- Dates: 4 September – 11 December 2025
- Format: Zoom classes (with recordings available)
- Includes: Downloadable worksheets, access to recordings, private support group
- Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Price: £220 / £170 for members
Ready to join us? 👉
Unlock the power of your DNA test and take your family history research to the next level with the DNA Bootcamp. Spaces are limited and the course is popular, so book early to secure your place.