Env/countryside/conservation work wanted

[BenB2k]

Hi there.

I have recently completed an NVQ Level 2 in Environmental Conservation following the completion of an NVQ Level 1 in Land-based Operations through BTCV. I have learnt a number of skills over the two years of practical volunteering such as post and rail/wire fencing, dry stone walling, tree felling, coppicing, hedgelaying, footpath maintenance, control of vegetation and the installation of gates and stiles.

I think i may have finished at the wrong time during a recession and whilst the government have put a freeze on public sector jobs as i am finding it difficult to find many paid opportunities out there. Ive been checking CJS and environmentjobs daily and of late the jobs seem to be on the quiet side.

Now i have completed i am looking for employment in a similar environment so that i can put these skills to good use whilst also continuing to develop and improve my skills. Ideally i am looking for work within an organisation but also contract work would be considered in the South Yorkshire area. I would also consider relocating if the right position came along.

If you know or you yourself are able to help me in any way i would love to hear from you.

Kind regards,

Ben

[metalfish]

Hi Ben,
just don't give up, the competiton can be abit fierce but don't let that put you off, go volunteering and get your name known, make sure whoever is organising the task recognises you as usefull and wanting to get a career rather than just another volunteer
Often jobs with 6 month/ seasonal positions require less experience and will take on newer folk (meaning those with qualifications and volunteer time)
Keep on applying
then apply for some more
when you do apply don't just list your experience give little samples of what you were involved with and your responsibilities within that role be it a project you did through NVQ or as a volunteer

Sarah, now a ranger after filling in a stupid amount of application forms!

[BenB2k]

Thank you for the advice Sarah. I'll certainly try my best not to give up without a fight. Ive spent two years juggling working full time and completing the NVQs so im prepared to stick at it to get to where i want to be.

In the meantime ill continue volunteering with BTCV and job searching Thanks again.

Ben

[Budding Ecologis]

What about applying to do a degree at University. You will still be able to get on to a course for this year?

[BenB2k]

I would love to go back to Uni and do something in this area, but unfortunately ive already been to uni and studied and received a degree in sport & leisure management which i later found out i had no interest in. So i am unable to get any financial help for a second stint at uni and i cant fund it myself.

[Budding Ecologis]

I was in the same predicament. I studied a Business Studies degree.

I enjoyed studying the subject but after I left Uni I lost interests in the subject and didn’t enjoy any associated jobs. Luckily I managed to save enough to go back to Uni and I am currently studying with the aspiration of becoming an ecologist. It’s a good job my girlfriend can afford the mortgage

[Budding Ecologis]

Having said that i've heard that experiance is just as important, so I would suggest joining all of your local groups e.g. local bat group. They may even train you up for a license.

[BenB2k]

Haha i wish my girlfriend could support me so i can go back uni!! Yeah i think getting as much experience under my belt is the key and taking whatever jobs are available even if they are short term contracts. Fingers crossed!

[Eryri]

Hello Ben...

I suggest some speculative applications in a 'growth sector' of provenance stock. There is currently agricultural incentives in Wales for the planting of native trees, and conversion of conifer forest to mixed, with schemes supported by the Welsh government. Here are two companies I know that are currently recruiting....

Glynllifon Tree Nursery
Caernarfon,
Gwynedd,
LL54 5DY,
Tel: 01286 831 061
E-Mail: meithrinfagoed@gwynedd.gov.uk

Dingle Wholesale Nursery
Frochas,
Welshpool,
Powys, SY21 9JD
Tel : 01938 555145
Email : info@dinglenurseryandgarden.co.uk

Best of luck.

[BenB2k]

Thank you very much Eryri.

I will have a look when i finish work. Thats great