From there, I studied Geography at the University of Birmingham, focusing on ecology and conservation related modules. Gaining practical experience is extremely important so I would recommend welcoming every opportunity with open arms. Whilst completing my studies, I took on a school outreach role with the RSPB, volunteered in labs sorting leaf and soil samples and carried out a placement at Winterbourne House and Garden, carrying out invasive species surveys, for one of my third year modules.

Having finished university very abruptly after my year abroad was cancelled for the second year in a row due to the pandemic, I was feeling very lost and unsure of myself! Although I had some valuable experience, it felt like an uphill battle to get a job in conservation. I resumed volunteering with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust on their Ice Age Ponds project throughout this summer, meeting some lovely people and learning a lot about ponds!  However, I realised that I needed more formal training to continue on my journey. When I saw an advertisement for the Conservation Traineeship role at Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, I immediately thought this is exactly what I have been looking for!

Fast forwarding to now, I am settling in well and getting to know everyone at the Trust. So far in my role, I have helped out with a variety of reserve management tasks alongside my supervisor Iain and fellow trainee Lydia. I think we make a great team! I have assisted with fence repairs, removal of gate posts (a particularly arduous task), boardwalk repair and making habitat piles out of felled brash as well as mowing and raking on roving tasks to promote wildflower growth. Everyone has been so welcoming and I have really enjoyed getting to know the volunteers. It has also been great getting to know some of my colleagues outside of work, in a new climbing club.

Particular highlights of the role so far have been learning about the habitats and biodiversity found at each nature reserve, from very knowledgeable volunteers and colleagues, and seeing such a diverse range of fascinating species. In the short amount of time I have been here, I have already seen many toads, slow-worms, leopard slugs and numerous species of fungi, including parasol mushrooms and white coral fungus.

One of the main challenges I have stumbled upon is my lack of physical strength. I found hammering staples into fence posts particularly tricky. It’s frustrating, as I want to complete tasks efficiently and prove myself to be a great choice for the role. I am here to learn and improve, and that is exactly what I plan on doing!

I am loving the variety of experience offered in this role and everyone is so willing to share their time and knowledge with us. I am eager to get stuck in with other aspects of conservation, including public engagement and ecological surveying of protected species. I am also keen (and nervous) to soon be trained in the use of chainsaws, so that I can be more actively involved in forestry management. I have already completed my first-aid training and feel very empowered that I can help someone out if there are any accidents on site (although I hope I never have to use my training).

I have really enjoyed my first month and although it is taking my body some time to adjust to more physical tasks, I am enthusiastic about getting stuck into our tasks every day, which is just the way it should be!

A recent graduate, Meg Cotterrell is keen to get stuck into all aspects of working in a conservation organisation and hopes that the trainee role is the first step on her conservation career ladder.