I can’t quite believe I’m writing this, it's all gone by so fast when I think back to last September. The variety of things I’ve learnt this year is vast - using a chainsaw, outdoor first aid, volunteer leadership and seriously brushing up on my ID knowledge just to name a few.
Over and out
Issy at The Devil's Spittleful
As Issy leaves her role before returning to university, she takes a look back at what she's learnt and the friendships she's made...
Despite Covid, this year really did turn out for the best for me. I’ve been outside doing things three times a week for the whole year. I’ve seen and felt the seasons change in the most beautiful way. The traineeship has allowed me to completely escape the chaos of the world and make a difference out on the reserves where nature continues to flourish; I consider myself very lucky to have been a part of that.
At times the other trainees and Iain were the only people I saw and we really have become a proper team. A team that is slowly getting smaller, I say with mixed feelings! Jake seems to be thriving in his new role in Bedfordshire and Ruthie has just started in Staffordshire. If you see her ranging about at Highgate Common do give her a wave. I miss you both!
Now it's my time to move on. I'm off to finish my degree in Bristol; by doing this traineeship I’ll be ahead of the game when I come to look for a job after university. I have a far more practical understanding of what conservation actually looks like and how it’s achieved, as well as everything I’ve been taught on a scientific level at uni.
I’d like to thank everyone who made this year the best it could have been...
- everyone at Smite who were so welcoming and helpful, especially the reserve officers who allowed us to really see what everyday life in their role is really like.
- the volunteers here at the Trust really have been a pleasure to get to know. Of course, we haven’t seen them anywhere near as much as we’d have liked but the time I did spend with them was great. To all future trainees I highly recommend asking volunteers anything and everything as alot of them have seen the county change and adapt over many years and it’s lovely to hear their stories (and don't forget how vital they are in enabling the Trust to run and maintain our ever growing number of reserves).
- of course, I want to say a massive thanks to Iain, Amy, Ruthie and Jake! It’s been a pleasure to get to know you all. Each of us brought something different to the team and I really have learnt something from all of you. Iain’s practical knowledge on just about every type of fence and gate is priceless out on reserves. Jake's twitcher ears taught us all different bird calls and he had such sheer enthusiasm for digging the perfect hole! Amy is probably the best insect identifier ever and Ruthie has taught me all about wildflowers, especially orchids! Working with two other girls and seeing our knowledge and confidence grow over this year has been so empowering. We are just three of the many more women joining the conservation industry, with our chainsaw licences, ready to make a difference!
- big thanks to Harry Green who has inspired me in so many ways, getting to know you has been an honour. Thank you for giving me your time and letting me pick your brain.
To all future trainees, say hello to everyone, ask as many questions as you can and enjoy the experience that is being a trainee with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. Trust me, the mud is worth it.
Trainee over and out.