Seasonal and Volunteer Work Supplement

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From Volunteer to Staff.

 Tom Bridge has always lived in the countryside and knew he wanted a countryside related job but his schools didn't offer any countryside or environmental subjects.  So with A levels under his belt he went on to further education gaining a qualification in financial economics – about as far from rural skills as you can get.  After graduating he wasn't really sure what direction to take and what career path to follow.  "My Mum saw an advert for volunteer wardens in the back of an RSPB magazine and suggested that I give it a go", said Tom.  "I did two weeks in January 1999 at Titchwell Marsh Reserve in Norfolk and didn't go back home for ten months, I'd found what I wanted to do."  Whilst volunteering Tom made ends meet initially on the dole – yes, you can claim JSA whilst working as a full time volunteer if you are still actively seeking paid employment, what the Job Centre considers to be a proper job! – and then working in a pub; he was also fortunate in having parents able to help with certain costs as well.  During his time as a volunteer the RSPB helped Tom to complete an NVQ in Landscape and Ecosystems and since then has sent him for practical skills training.

In November 1999 Tom started paid work with a three month winter contract and was never out of work for several years.  He is now a warden on the RSPB Dearne Valley Reserve, one of the RSPB's flagship sites. Tom says, "I manage habitats on the reserve for the target species.  I also make sure the reserve infrastructure is safe and user-friendly for the public.  I have been on courses to drive tractors, use chain saws, do tree surgery and quad biking, plus courses on personal development and management skills.  Today I have spoken to the grazier, agricultural dealers, members of the public, volunteers and the media – and its only lunchtime.

There is no 9 - 5 and you have to be prepared to work weekends, Bank Holidays or even Christmas Day.  It is more of a vocation than a job.  I live on site, which is fantastic; I have a 250 acre back garden.

One of the most rewarding times is the survey season, when we get up at first light to count the breeding birds.  That is when you see the results of your hard work.  Looking back I realise I took the most appropriate route, you can't get a job in conservation without spending time as a volunteer."

For others wanting to follow in his footsteps Tom has two pieces of advice.  First; volunteer as much as possible, go out of your way to find conservation groups (every uni has one somewhere!) and join in.  And second; be sure it's what you want to do, volunteering is a good way to dip your toe in the water without taking the plunge.  Conservation work is rarely glamorous, it's hard, dirty, physical work interspersed with boring office admin; although the financial rewards are not high seeing the results of your labours more than compensates.  Tom finishes, "I am certainly grateful that my Mum suggested volunteering for those few weeks in Norfolk.  It was probably the best thing I ever did."

 Although around half of all SWT volunteers work on wildlife reserves and there are many other vital jobs carried out by volunteers that don’t involve a spade or work gloves. So, you could find yourself digging out drainage ditches to prevent water-logging or sorting and scanning photographs for the Trust’s image database. Perhaps you would prefer to tackle invasive species with a bow-saw or organise the publicity for a reserve open day.

Many volunteers come to the Trust to gain experience for a job in conservation. The key is to start volunteering as soon as possible, perhaps while you are still studying. This way, you can accrue considerable experience by the time you are ready to apply for that paid job. It also demonstrates to potential employers that you are committed to the cause. Even if the volunteering you do doesn’t exactly match the paid work you want – it all looks good on your CV!

For example, Amy took on the voluntary job of looking after a small wildlife reserve in Edinburgh while she was studying for an HND in Countryside Management at a local agricultural college. There was plenty of tidying up, planting of wildflowers, pruning of hedges and path maintenance to keep her busy. Shortly after completing her course, Amy got herself a paid Countryside Ranger job within the Cairngorm National Park. The work Amy had done on the reserve definitely helped place her above the other job applicants.

You will not have to commit huge amounts of time. In most cases volunteers give a day each month or perhaps half a day each week, depending on the duties involved and there will always be a member of staff or an experienced volunteer available to provide support and direction.

The Trust also offers training and work experience for people who have been unemployed for six months or more. Under the New Deal scheme Lantra certificates are offered for chainsaw use, brushcutting, treeplanting, footpath construction, and post and wire fencing, amongst others.

All of the Trust’s current volunteering opportunities are advertised on SWT’s website at www.swt.org.uk. Email enquiries@swt.org.uk or call 0131 3127765. For more information about New Deal please email pgilbert@swt.org.uk.

Scotland:

 

REF      764-DIRECT-6/3                         JOB      PROJECT SCOTLAND VOLUNTEER RANGER

BE4      06/03/06                                                LOC      DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY NATIONAL SCENIC AREAS

PAY     £55 a week plus some travelling expenses           FOR     NTS

DES     Gain valuable skills & experience working alongside the NSA Community Ranger & other cside staff in this beautiful part of Scotland. Main base is Gatehouse of Fleet, although depending on loc of successful applicant other base options are by Castle Douglas or Dalbeattie. 12 mth post .  BUT            Rel qual pref, at least some experience & interest in working with vols, leading events & practical cside skills. The upper age limit for Project Scotland is 25, & applicants must be resident in Scotland. Necessary to have accom within travelling distance & transport.    

ASK     pjoad@nts.org.uk 07971 069765 A4 SAE to Phillippa Joad, NSA Community Ranger, Rangers Office, Threave Garden & Estate, Castle Douglas, DG7 1RX

 

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-8                     JOB      NEW DEAL

 BE4     ?                                  LOC      Central Scotland, Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway, Fife, Borders & Tayside

PAY     Allowance (All benefits protected)            FOR     SCOTTISH WILDLIFE TRUST

DES         We offer training & practical work experience to unemployed people on our reserves throughout Scotland. Chainsaw, Clearing Saw, Brushcutting & Strimming, Fencing, Footpath Construction, Tree Planting & other rural skills are taught as Lantra Qualifications.    BUT    Registered as unemployed, aged 18 or over & interested in outdoor work.                 ASK     Send SAE to: Peter Gilbert, Scottish Wildlife Trust, Cramond House, Cramond Glebe Road, Edinburgh  or tel 0131 3124732 (Direct Line)  email: pgilbert@swt.org.uk www.swt.org.uk under 'Work with Us' section.

 

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Torchlight survey for Great Crested Newt is typically carried out in the Spring when breeding adult Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus are abundant in breeding ponds/waterbodies.  Peak numbers are recorded in ponds in the height of the breeding season (April to late May - there is some geographical variance).  During this season the Great Crested Newt is engaged in elaborate courtship displays and are easily counted in the open, shallow areas of the pond.  Distinguishing characteristics such as the jagged dorsal crest and silvered tail stripe of the male Great Crested Newt are key identifiable traits, alongside notable courtship displays with females.  

At night Great Crested Newts tend to move up from the pond depths into shallower, open areas where they can perform their mating rituals.  Surveys are conducted 30 to 90 minutes after dusk on dry, mild, calm nights and involve a thorough survey of the accessible shoreline.  The waterbody is worked progressively around whilst scanning with the light beam of a high candlepower torch enabling a broad band from the waters edge to be surveyed.  The entire margin of the pond is walked once and a count of Great Crested Newt and other Amphibians made.  It is normal practice to record all Amphibians, and in addition, for all Newts, their species and sex. 

Torchlight surveying in the Spring is a suitable technique for measuring relative abundance of Great Crested Newt and other Amphibians within waterbodies, and alongside other appropriate survey techniques, assessing presence/absence of the species.

Staff require good identification skills to be able to identify Amphibian species by torchlight, and more often than not, when they are on the move.  In addition, a good appreciation and awareness of health and safety issues when working next to waterbodies.  Life jackets, wellingtons, site maps and head-torches are invaluable equipment.  The work is carried out at night and can often be cold so a hat and a pair of gloves is a good idea too.  Fortunately there are not too many midges during the peak torching season, but a welly full of water is not uncommon!

Heritage Environmental Ltd., 50 High Street • Auchterarder • Perthshire • PH3 1DB

Tel:.01764 660067 E-mail: post@heritage-environmental.co.uk       Web www.heritage-environmental.co.uk

[Picture by: Tim Bernhard. Supplied by The Herpetological Conservation Trust herpconstrust.org.uk]

 REF      765-DIRECT-27/2                                   JOB      PROJECT SCOTLAND VOLUNTEER RANGER

BE4      01/03/06                                                LOC      GREY MARE’S TAIL, DUMFRIESSHIRE

PAY     £55 a week subsistence allow + some travelling expenses            FOR     NTS

DES     Gain valuable skills & experience on this beautiful upland property. 6 mths, poss extension to 12.    BUT

Rel qual pref, at least some experience and interest in wildlife surveying and practical cside skills. The upper age limit for Project Scotland is 25, and applicants must be Scottish or have been resident in Scotland for a year+. Necessary to have accom within traveling distance and transport.  ASK     dwatson@nts.org.uk 01683 222714

 

 Wales:

REF      766/7-DIRECT-3/4                      JOB      2 SANDWICH COURSE STUDENT PLACEMENTS         

BE4      31/3/06                                     LOC      NORTH WALES           

PAY     £100 per week                           FOR     CONWY COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL

DES     The Cside Service manages 23 sites spread around Conwy county, from woodlands to sand dunes. Placements will be up to 10 months (Nov 06 to Aug 07) aimed at someone on a sandwich year out. Work with a friendly team gaining: a working understanding of Conwy's Local Biodiversity Action Plan; great deal of cside management experience; knowledge of different habitats; opportunity to practice & learn many practical tasks e.g. fencing, footpath maintenance etc; chance to take First Aid Cert, PA1 or PA2 Pesticide course or other quals whilst on placement; experience in leading guided walks and a chance to make contacts within local cside orgs.  BUT      Commitment, enthusiasm & a driving licence. No accom is provided but the Council is happy to help students find suitable accom in locality.     

ASK     Send a copy of your CV to: Countryside Section, Planning Dept, Conwy County Borough Council, Civic Offices, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL29 8AR 01492 575205 / 575310 helen.jowett@conwy.gov.uk www.conwy.gov.uk/countryside 

 

REF      768-DIRECT-13/3                       JOB      SEASONAL INFORMATION ASSISTANT          

BE4      9/3/06                                       LOC      CRAIG Y NOS COUNTRY PARK, BRECON BEACONS   

PAY     14106 pro rata                           FOR     BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK  

DES     Be part of a team that conserves, enhances & promotes the natural beauty, wildlife & cultural heritage of the Park with it's diverse & distinctive landscape. Fixed term until 1st October 2006. 14 hpw (average)           ASK

www.breconbeacons.org Liz Lewis 01874 620426 liz.lewis@breconbeacons.org     

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-6/3                                    JOB      VOLUNTEER WARDENS (Millennium Volunteer Scheme)

BE4      08/3/06  IV 20 & 21/3/06             LOC      FLAT HOLM ISLAND, BRISTOL CHANNEL

PAY     0 + accom / food / travel / training & equipment budget      FOR     CARDIFF COUNTY COUNCIL

DES     Great opportunity to live & work on an Island Nature Reserve (SSSI & LNR). Demanding yet rewarding position. Gain experience in: practical habitat work; livestock husbandry; leading guided tours for visitors; leading vol work parties, wildlife monitoring; env education; building maintenance. ALSO New Millennium Vol funded positions for 16-25 year olds. Rota: vols work 10 days on island followed by 4 days leave (all weather dependent).           BUT      Enthusiasm, flexibility, 6+ months commitment, with strong social skills.     ASK     CV & covering letter to: Flat Holm Project, Pierhead, Barry Docks, Barry  CF62 5QS  flatholmproject@cardiff.gov.uk  www.cardiff.gov.uk/flatholm

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      2 VOLUNTARY SEASONAL ASSISTANT SITE MANAGERS

BE4      13/03/06                        IV 17/3/06         LOC      TEIFI MARSHES NATURE RESERVE, CARDIGAN

PAY     0 but accom & food voucher provided       FOR     THE WILDLIFE TRUST OF SOUTH & WEST WALES

DES     Required Mid-April to October, 4 dpw with some weekend working.  Be part of a team managing this busy reserve & Welsh Wildlife Centre.  Would suit recent graduates seeking experience.  Assist with practical work, visitor & school gps, surveys, otter release programme & more.           BUT      Rel experience & qual desirable, but training given.           ASK     CV & letter to Phil Ward, Welsh Wildlife Centre, Cilgerran Cardigan, SA43 2TB p.ward@welshwildlife.org 01239 621212.

Interview with Liz Appleton, Countryside Sites Officer, Worcestershire County Council.

 

How long have you been in your present full time long term appointment?  I have been in my current (full-time permanent) post since June 2004 – 19 months.

Where and when did you start in your quest to work in the countryside?       I have always had an interest in wildlife and the countryside and became involved with voluntary groups, after a while I realised that I wanted to do conservation/countryside management for a living.

At the beginning what qualifications and experience did you have in this sector?    Initially I had no relevant formal qualifications.  I returned to university as a mature student, completing an MSc as a conversion course to adapt my previous qualifications.  My first qualification had an ‘environmental’ part to it and I did have qualifications in other relevant skills, such as first aid certificate, computer skills etc.   My experience had come partly from upbringing, but mainly from volunteering.

What type of volunteering work have you done?        I started a general BTCV volunteer becoming more involved over time and helped lead day tasks (I am sure having a camper van that could take people and bicycles helped!).  Whilst studying I joined the university conservation volunteers, and also had two part-time voluntary roles – one as a Ranger and one as an education ranger.   Even when getting paid work I continued volunteering (and still do), although the emphasis changed.  Through becoming involved in species monitoring and survey on a voluntary basis, I am now licensed.  I continue to do a lot of voluntary work of this type.

At the time did you consider the experiences to be worthwhile and useful to your progress? Has your attitude changed since becoming 'properly employed'?          I certainly found the experience useful. By being on hand and willing I was given, and took, the opportunity to gain experience in a whole range of things. and over time accrued a lot of hands on experience, which was enough to convince employers that I was experienced.  There is no doubt that the volunteering I did launched me on my career.

Now that I am employed, and involved in recruiting staff, I look at people’s voluntary experience as well as their paid experience.  Some of the things often looked for in staff are motivation and commitment .  I do, however, look at voluntary experience with a critical eye, and particularly the difference between one of the crowd and someone with responsibility.

What level of responsibility and stature were you given as a volunteer, can you give an example? As a general conservation volunteer, I started leading day tasks with a local group.  Being a voluntary Ranger was the most relevant experience, I started devising and leading guided walks, work parties and education events.  I had a recognised role with clear responsibilities.

Was it easy to volunteer as well as support yourself financially?        No!  I could not afford to volunteer full-time.  I was studying a full-time MSc (funding myself), volunteering 2 days per week and fitting in a variety of paid work to top up the money I had saved before I returned to study.  It kept me busy…

Did you manage to get any funding and support for living and for further professional development during your time volunteering?  One of my volunteer jobs paid mileage, had I stayed longer I would probably benefited from some formal training.

During your volunteering where there many chances to network and talk to people in the sector?   Yes.  Volunteering in two different places simultaneously in roles with a different focus meant I met a wide range of professionals and could see things from different view points.  I also took the opportunity to meet people, even if it meant going in on extra days or evenings.  By being willing, people were prepared to give me their time and share their knowledge.

What type of seasonal and short term work have you done?  My first paid work as a Ranger was for two days before Christmas making Christmas crackers with children – 100 each day.  My boss was ill and they needed someone at short notice - as I was the volunteer around it was offered to me.  Not your ‘typical’ Ranger work perhaps, but it was paid and earned me some goodwill.  I could then say that I had been employed and so it all began.

Then I had a 3 month part-time contract as Biodiversity Officer for a local authority, writing their local BAP.

My first full-time post was as a seasonal ranger for 5 months – a lot of very routine stuff, but if we covered our core work we could then take on other projects of interest or gain experience where it was lacking.  Through this I broadened my experience.  Then a maternity cover post – the post was advertised as for less than 2 months, but once I got the job I negotiated a longer contract.  Then a 15-month fixed term contract (timescale linked to project funding).  Then a full-time permanent post…. And now another one.

How was this work obtained?              The Biodiversity Officer post was obtained through contacts I had made at University and volunteering.  After that I have got all my jobs responding to ads in the CJS.

Approximately how long did it take you from when you decided you wanted to enter this sector to gaining full time, long term employment?          About 4 years.

 

 England – Anglia:

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-6                     JOB         LONG TERM EDUCATION VOLUNTEER 

BE4      N/A                                           LOC        DUNWICH HEATH & COASTAL CENTRE

PAY     0                                              FOR        THE NATIONAL TRUST

DES     Dunwich Heath is a unique area of lowland heath, with adjacent freshwater marshes & coastal shingle banks & soft cliffs which support a rich variety of wildlife. Assist with the delivery of education, ranging from primary schools through to adult education. No previous teaching experience necessary. Free accomm provided. Min 6 month placement.     BUT        Ability to work with a wider range of audiences. Creative with a keen interest in working with schools & the public. Subject to CRB check.      ASK        01728 648501  CVs should outline previous vol experience & interests.  CV to: Jessica.woodgate@nationaltrust.org.uk

                           

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-6                     JOB      LONG TERM CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER  

BE4      N/A                                           LOC      DUNWICH HEATH & COASTAL CENTRE

PAY     0                                              FOR     THE NATIONAL TRUST

DES     Dunwich Heath is a unique area of lowland heath, with adjacent freshwater marshes & coastal shingle banks & soft cliffs which support a rich variety of wildlife. Opportunity to learn about heathland conservation & monitoring work. Free accomm provided. Min 6 month placement.   BUT        Interest in ecology & conservation of lowland heaths & wetlands. Special skills not needed but must have a genuine interest in & enthusiasm for wildlife conservation. Ornithological / botanical / entomological skills pref but not essential. Some previous vol experience. ASK        01728 648501  CVs should outline previous vol experience & interests. CV to: david.sutton@nationaltrust.org.uk

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-5                     JOB        TWO VOLUNTARY GENERAL EDUCATION ASSISTANTS

BE4      N/A                                           LOC        BRANCASTER MILLENNIUM ACTIVITY CENTRE, NORFOLK

PAY     0                                              FOR     THE NATIONAL TRUST

DES        Modern field study centre specialising in outdoor education & Education for Sustainable Development. The Centre offers a variety of outdoor pursuits & field studies to a range of residential school groups, families & adults. Help with education activities, outdoor pursuits & a variety of other tasks & domestic duties. Min placement 6 months starting Jan 06 (flexible). We can offer: accommodation (all bills paid) & meals when groups are in residence; experience in designing & leading children's env education activities; paid domestic work (approx 5 hours per week).      BUT        Interest in outdoor pursuits & / or env issues, good communication skills & experience of working with children & living in remote, rural envs useful.        ASK        CV & covering letter to: emily.goldsmith@nationaltrust.org.uk  01485 210719.

 

 England – Midlands:

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & WILDLIFE TRAINEE

BE4      ?                                              LOC      NORTHAMPTON OFFICE, THE WILDLIFE TRUST BCNP

PAY     0 but expenses paid       FOR     WILDLIFE TRUST FOR BEDS, CAMBS, NORTHANTS & PETERBORO

DES/BUT          Gain experience in the various branches of work in the Wildlife Trust. Training in specific skills available, incl: first aid, chainsaw, brush-cutter, species ID, ecological monitoring, digital photomonitoring, GPS & GIS and Recorder 2002, reserve management planning, livestock management, BAPs, regional and local planning and environmental education. Full time, 1 year.            ASK     Written CV & letter: N.E.W.T.S, The Wildlife Trust, Lings House, Billing Lings Northampton, NN3 8BE.

 

 REF     VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      NATURE RESERVE VOLUNTEERS       

BE4      CONTINUOUS                           LOC      LEICS & RUTLAND

PAY     0                                              FOR     LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND WILDLIFE TRUST

DES     Learn new skills, meet new people & improve your local environment by joining our nature reserves vol gp.  We carryout vital management work on reserves across Leicestershire & Rutland.  No previous experience is needed as training is given & tools are provided.          ASK     Nathalie Cossa 0116 272 0444 ncossa@lrwt.org.uk

England – North East:

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      EDUCATION VOLUNTARY OFFICER     

BE4      15/3/06                                     LOC      YORK  

PAY     0                                              FOR     BTCV                            DES     Join a small team to gain experience of env education & community work. Develop education projects & lead activities with children & adults. As part of this you'll learn how to develop a project, gain funding & manage workload. You will receive training in leadership, H&S, first aid & more.  Recent Vol Officers have gained employment  as RSPB Education Officers, Groundwork Project Officer, FSC Education staff, sustainability project managers & at outdoor education centres. Education team work alongside the conservation team.     BUT      6+ mths full time or 8+ mths part time commitment required. No accom provided but is readily available around the city.  ASK     Rachel Earnshaw 01904 644300 r.earnshaw@btcv.org.uk

REF      769/0-DIRECT-1/5                      JOB      2 PART-TIME SEASONAL WARDENS

BE4      30/04/06                                                LOC      NORTHUMBERLAND COAST

PAY     YES                                         FOR     THE NATIONAL TRUST

DES     June - September to carry out various duties incl litter control, biological surveys, habitat & access management. BUT            Good all round knowledge of wildlife & conservation, accurate recording & monitoring skills, excellent communication & practical skills. Appropriate academic qual advantage. Own vehicle essential. Requires a willingness to work in an isolated location often involving unsociable hrs, with the minimum of supervision. Good level of fitness, plenty of enthusiasm, high level of motivation.         ASK     A4 SAE to: The National Trust Coastal Warden's Office, Low Newton by the Sea, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 3EL.

 

 

REF      771/2-DIRECT-27/3                    JOB      2 SPECIES PROTECTION WARDENS

BE4      24/03/06                                                LOC      NORTHUMBERLAND COAST

PAY     YES                                         FOR     THE NATIONAL TRUST

DES     May - August to monitor & protect a breeding colony of seabirds on the Northumberland Coast.      

BUT      Good all round knowledge of wildlife & conservation, accurate recording & monitoring skills, excellent communication & practical skills. Appropriate academic qual & own vehicle advantage. Basic accom provided. Requires a willingness to work in an isolated location often involving unsociable hrs, with the minimum of supervision. Good level of fitness, plenty of enthusiasm, high level of motivation, & considerable staying power.             ASK     A4 SAE to: The National Trust Coastal Warden's Office, Low Newton by the Sea, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 3EL.

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-3                     JOB      VOLUNTEER OFFICER

BE4      ?                                              LOC      LEEDS

PAY     0                                              FOR     BTCV SKELTON PROJECT

DES / BUT        We are a popular & busy project that depends on our VO team to help deliver our education activities, manage our wildlife area & promote our work to others. There are almost always vacancies. Excellent choice for anyone contemplating a career working with children & / or the env. All vols will be involved in delivering env education activities for school & community groups & some site management. Specific duties depend on the current team. Please feel free to contact the project staff to discuss the current situation. In return for your time we will help you develop important skills to increase your employability. Gain experience in practical conservation, wildlife & cside skills, organisational & publicity skills, project liaison etc. You will get help with benefit claims, career choices & preparation of job applications. We have a particularly good record of seeing VOs into employment.     ASK     Sarah Taylor, 0113 2430815 skelton@btcv.org.uk

 

England – North West:

REF      VOL-DIRECT13/3                                   JOB      VOLUNTARY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ASSISTANT

BE4      NO CLOSING DATE                   LOC      YARROW VALLEY COUNTRY PARK, CHORLEY, LANCS

PAY     0                                                          FOR     CHORLEY BOROUGH COUNCIL

DES     Duties will involve working in the visitor centre giving advice & info to public, assisting with school visits, young peoples holiday activities, Junior Ranger Service & public events    BUT      Must be enthusiastic about nature & the outdoors & have a genuine desire to work with young people. Working hours are flexible, but some weekend work will be required. Must be reliable. Subject to CRB check.   ASK     Info: Sarah Leach (Countryside Education Officer) 01257 515922 sarah.leach@chorley.gov.uk Apply: Sarah Leach, Leisure & Cultural Services, Chorley Borough Council, Gillibrand Street, Chorley, Lancs, PR7 2EL

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-6/3                                    JOB      GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES   

BE4      8/3/06   IV 27/3/06                     LOC      OLDHAM & ROCHDALE           

PAY     0 + travel expenses                    FOR     GROUNDWORK           

DES/BUT          Programme starts 10/4/06. The Voluntary Project Assistant (VPA) programme provides full time professional work experience for up to 6 mths. Groundwork has helped almost 1000 graduates begin a career in the regeneration sector since 1993. Experience provided in community engagement, env education, project development, marketing, funding & env business advice. Combing one of these placements with a recognised Leadership & Management course equips with essential skills to fast-track your career. Training provided. 

ASK     www.groundworkvpa.com 0161 6241444  

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-7                     JOB        VOLUNTEER VACANCIES

BE4        N / A                          LOC        MARTIN MERE WILDFOWL TRUST, BURSCOUGH, LANCASHIRE

PAY         0                                           FOR        WWT

DES        Vols required helping in a) school education programmes, b) weekends / holidays, c) artistic skills & d) people with a knowledge of birds who wish to share with others. Training provided. Min 30 days per year, starting immediately.          BUT          Relate well to people; like the outdoors particularly wildlife; believe in conservation. Willing to undergo CRB checks.                ASK                     01704  895181 (24 hours) Dave.Rydings@wwt.org.uk  

 

 England – South:

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      VOLUNTEERS

BE4      ?                                              LOC      OXFORDSHIRE

PAY     0                                  FOR     WILDLIFE CONSERAVTION RESEARCH UNIT (WildCRU), OXFORD UNI

DES     Exciting project monitoring reintroduced water voles. Water voles are being reintroduced during 2006 to sites in Oxfordshire as part of a major project to restore species to the Upper Thames region. Help monitor these populations by setting / checking live-capture traps, field sign surveys, recording habitat characteristics & assisting with health screening. Full training provided.           BUT      Ideally enthusiastic, robust, energetic & committed, able to carry out fieldwork as part of a close knit team & independently, outdoors in all weather conditions. Pref located in Oxford as no accom provided. Must be available for 2 – 3 specific weeks each month, ideally for 3+ months between April & October & have driving licence (own car advantage)        ASK            Merryl Gelling merryl.gelling@zoo.ox.ac.uk 01865 393106 / 07697 640498            

 

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-OK-7                     JOB      1 OR 2 VOLUNTEER OFFICERS

BE4      ?                                              LOC      GLOUCESTERSHIRE   

PAY     0 but payment of out of pocket expenses FOR     BTCV   

DES     Midweek Gp carries out practical conservation tasks, this is a chance to shape the role & there us potential to expand the gps activities & recruit new vols. Part time vol needed to organise & lead a programme of tasks. Help with coordination of vol gp, manage the tools, deal with enquiries & general admin for the weekend gp. Gain experience in wide range of practical conservation skills from dry stone walling to pond creation, BTCV can offer wide range of training opportunities incl possibility of chainsaw, brushcutter, leadership & first aid training. Bus available to the office.

BUT      Must be available 1+ dpw in order to organise tools & vehicles. Wishing to pursue an interest in the env & can lead to paid work with other orgs.           ASK     James Aylward 01452 864805                

 

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      CONSERVATION TRAINEES

BE4      ASAP                                       LOC      OXFORD

PAY     0                                              FOR     BERKS, BUCKS & OXON WILDLIFE TRUST

DES     BBOWT’s Conservation Trainee scheme is designed to help committed people to develop wildlife management skills through a structured training programme from practical conservation to survey work.            BUT      Must be a good team worker, & able to offer 3 dpw of volunteering, with 6-12 mths commitment pref.        ASK     Info: Mark Vallance, Reserves Officer; markvallance@bbowt.org.uk 01865775476.  Apply: send a CV to  Mark Vallance, BBOWT, The Lodge, Armstrong Road, Littlemore, Oxon OX4 4XT.

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION VOLUNTEERS 

BE4      ?                                  LOC      Henfield, W Sussex; Seaford, E Sussex & Outreach Over Sussex county

PAY     0 + agreed travel expenses         FOR     SUSSEX WILDLIFE TRUST       

DES     Support trained staff with the gps of school children. During the day each school is divided into gps for different activities around different nature reserves based on schools curriculum needs. You'll be trained to assist & if you wish eventually lead a school gp with their env activities. Training given   BUT      Regular commitment appreciated, could be as little as 1 day a fortnight or as often as 4 dpw between March & August (but any vol help always welcome) Enjoy working with children, able to communicate with all ages but mainly primary age gp. Enthusiastic with sense of humour. Enjoy working as part of a team with some knowledge of or interest in wildlife. Enjoy working out of doors with physical fitness, reliable & dependable. CRB & reference checks. ASK     Anna-Marie Kyriacou, Volunteer Development Officer, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill, Henfield BN5 9SD anna-mariekyriacou@sussexwt.org.uk 01273 497562       

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-24/4                      JOB      VOLUNTEER OFFICER PLACEMENT
BE4      24/4/06                                     LOC      STAMNER PARK, BRIGHTON

PAY     0                                              FOR     BTCV                                       
DES     Develop and run a Young People's Conservation Gp, respond to vol enquiries & produce info for conservation gps.     BUT             Conservation experience useful but plenty of opportunities for free training & job shadowing. Some computer skills & diving licence essential. 1+ dpw with some evenings and weekends. Min commitment of 6 mths.

ASK     Hilary Bell 01273 692 703 h.bell@btcv.org.uk BTCV, Environmental Resources Office, Stamner Park, Brighton, BN1 9SE

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      2 VOLUNTEER BADGER RESEARCH ASSISTANTS      

BE4      ?                                              LOC      OXFORD          

PAY     0                                  FOR     WILDLIFE CONSERVATION RESEARCH UNIT, UNI OF OXFORD

DES     Required for 3 months to investigate cooperative breeding & mate choice in the European badger. . Research commences immediately & involves office based, behavioural analysis of CCTV footage. Trained to score behaviours (such as babysitting, grooming & mounting) according to strict ethogram, to enter data in Access database & to conduct inter-observer reliability checks. Work 10am to 6pm 5 dpw.        BUT      Dedicated & available for 3 mths, willing to start immediately. Strong academic interest in behavioural ecology. Enthusiastic, committed & based near Oxford, as accom ca not be provided.         ASK            Hannah.dugdale@zoo.ox.ac.uk  

 

REF     VOL-DIRECT-20/3                                  JOB      VOLUNTEERS FOR BAT DETECTOR SURVEYS

BE4      ?                                              LOC      UPPER THAMES CATCHMENT AREA

PAY    0                                  FOR    WILDLIFE CONSERVATION RESEARCH UNIT, UNI OF OXFORD

DES     Part-time to assist with research into bat activity patterns & habitat use within farmland around Oxfordshire & surrounding counties.           BUT      Previous experience with bat ID & analysis of echolocation calls desirable but not essential.  Vols must be able to commit to 3+ nights fieldwork per week for 3–6 mths during April to October 2006.  Own transport advantage.  Must be physically fit & prepared to undertake long hours of fieldwork at night in remote locations (lone working will not be required).               ASK    danielle.linton@zoo.ox.ac.uk www.wildcru.org/aboutus/jobs.htm

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-26/6                      JOB     DRAGONFLY RESEARCH VOLUNTEERS

BE4     July 06                                      LOC      UPPER THAMES AREA, OXFORDSHIRE

PAY     0                                              FOR    UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

DES     Part-time & full-time vols required to assist with research on the ecology & conservation of Dragonflies (Odonata) on farmland in the Upper Thames Area in Oxfordshire & surrounding counties. Research tasks will involve: collecting & analysing water samples, assisting with macroinvertebrate & macrophyte collection & ID, dragonfly surveys & possibly a pilot mark-release-recapture study.  BUT    3+dpw for 3 months during April-August 2006. Alternative arrangements may be considered. Enthusiastic, physically fit & prepared to undertake long hours of fieldwork. No previous experience necessary but interest in freshwater ecology, Odonates or conservation desirable. Own transport advantage.

ASK    Eva Raebel eva.raebel@zoo.ox.ac.uk http://www.wildcru.org/aboutus/jobs.htm

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-20/3                      JOB      DEDICATED VOLUNTEER

BE4      20/03/06                                                LOC      OXFORDSHIRE

PAY     0                                  FOR     WILDLIFE CONSERVATION RESEARCH UNIT, UNI OF OXFORD

DES     Vols needed for a small mammal field study, focusing on harvest mice, from April to October. Part of an exciting new study looking at biodiversity on farmland, this project will use live-trapping & other techniques to study population ecology of the harvest mouse. Opportunity to work with UK’s smallest rodent & closely observe various techniques used in field studies.      BUT             Ideally enthusiastic, robust, energetic & committed. Able to carry out fieldwork as part of small, close-knit team also independently, outdoors, in all weather conditions. Pref located in the Oxford area, as accom cannot be provided. 2+ months availability         ASK     Info / apply: www.wildcru.org/aboutus/jobs.htm CV to: ruth.brandt@zoo.ox.ac.uk  & complete a WildCRU vols questionnaire (NB: write for the attention of Ruth Brandt in the 'Other information / comments' box).

 

England – London:

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      FOR     LONDON WILDLIFE TRUST       

BE4      ?                                              PAY     0

JOB:                                                     LOC:                             DES/BUT:

Assistant Boat Handler                           Isleworth Ait, Hounslow  Once a month. Help the fleet of boats used to access the exciting & unusual island. Help out with launching & operating the boats, at the moment 4.5 hrs every second Saturday of the month from approx 08.30 to 13.00. Get to know this amazing river & its wildlife at close quarters. Training in small boat handling, work with small gp of vols & deal with member of the public on open days. Need to be physically fit. Small boat handling licence for inshore waters & knowledge of outboard motors advantage. Contact: Cliff Watson 020 88909815 cliff@watson21.freeserve.co.uk               

Workday Leaders                                               Hutchinson's & Chapel Banks, Croydon   Lead vols on practical conservation workdays on 2 nature reserves. Chalk downlands host a wide range of wildflowers & insect species, incl orchids & butterflies. Take responsibility for the org & management of workdays. Opportunities for wider involvement in managing the reserve. Gain leadership experience. 1 or 2 Sundays per month Sept to March. 6+ months Need experience of practical conservation tasks. Some leadership experience pref but training given. Good planning & communication skills. Contact: Amanda MacLean, Volunteering Officer 020 78034288 amaclean@wildlondon.org.uk  

Shot Tower Wardens                              Crane Park Island, Richmond      Occasional weekend wardens needed to help keep the building open to the public. Tower recently converted to visitor centre with displays about the biodiversity & history of the site. Give a few hours of your time once or twice a week. Also looking for people interested in species monitoring. Need enthusiasm & reliability. Contact: Alex Robb 07702 669888 wildcrane@btopenworld.com

Trainee Warden                                     Camley Street Natural Park, Camden      Work alongside the Project Manager delivering a mixture of community & biodiversity objectives, in time become responsible for day to day management of the site, opening & closing, patrolling, maintaining displays & notices etc. As you become more experienced you should be able to assist the education sessions, deliver events & guided walks & lead vol workdays by yourself. Excellent work experience, in house training. 2+ dpw for 2+ mths. Need a willingness to work independently, CRB check is required. Contact: Tom Clarke, Project Manager 020 78332311 camleyst@wildlondon.org.uk

Habitat Survey Assistants                                   3 London boroughs                     Each year the Trust undertakes habitat surveys of 3 boroughs. Help with surveying to incl: plant & habitat ID, survey methodology, data inputting using Recorder database & quality control. Learn how to use the Recorder database. Need to be physically fit and know some aspects of flora & fauna ID & use of databases/keyboards and asset. Contact: Denis Vickers 020 78034283 dvickers@wildlondon.org.uk         

Water Vole Survey Helpers                     London                                      The Project aims to establish current distribution & status of water voles in the Capital, recommend suitable habitat management & provide advice. Contribute to a systematic survey. Will be allocated convenient stretches of river to survey in local area. Training given if necessary. Occasional daytimes to suit. Optimal survey season April to October. Opportunities to get involved with radio-tracking voles in the wild. Need wellies & to be reasonably fit. Contact: Louise Wells, Water Vole Project Officer  020 72610447 lwells@wildlondon.org.uk

Butterfly Transect Recorder                     Camley Street Natural Park, Camden      Undertake Camley Street's first butterfly transect. Setting a baseline from which all subsequent data shall be compared. In house training. Ideally one visit a week April to Sept. 3+ visit commitment. Must have basic butterfly ID skills & willing to learn. Contact: Tom Clarke, Project Manager 020 78332311 camleyst@wildlondon.org.uk

Education Volunteer                               Hackney                                               Trust runs an env education service at the West Reservoir Centre involving curriculum based classes, holiday clubs & weekend family activities. Tasks incl: assisting with school gps, making worksheets & games, helping at the toddler club & promotion of the centre & activities. Regular on any weekday. Ideally 4+ weeks but pref longer. Need good all round communication skills, especially with children. Positive attitude towards env education. Art & craft skills a bonus. Chat: Lucy Harrigan, Education Officer 020 88006161 wildlondon@btconnect.com

Volunteer Education Assistant                Camley Street Natural Park, Camden      Help deliver the important education programme, anticipated that the vol will deliver parts of the lessons themselves. Will give excellent work experience, learning how an env education programme is delivered. 1+ dpw, min 20 days. May have to be CRB checked. Contact: Tom Clarke, Project Manager 020 78332311 camleyst@wildlondon.org.uk

Volunteer Wardens                                Barking & Dagenham                 Take part in a scheme to improve safety at Eastbrookend Country Park. Patrol the Park & Chase Nature Reserve. Work in pairs to speak with members of the public, report any incidents & keep a general eye on the site. Equipped with radios, maps & uniforms, training wqill be provided in first aid & use of radios, map reading & procedures. Work on a rota basis, no min time but need people willing to volunteer on a regular basis. Must be reliable, responsible, calm & approachable & able to walk fair distances. Contact: Gareth Winn, Project Manager 020 85938096 wildlifetrust@lbbd.gov.uk

Community Gardener                             Southwark                     Assist in all areas of work at the Centre for Wildlife Gardening – practical work experience in wildlife garden & wildflower nursery, site wardening, assisting with Happy Flower Project (Adults with special needs), school club s, special events & other outreach work. Broad range of experience to be gained in all areas of community & wildlife gardening. On the job training given. 1+ dpw with 3+ months commitment. Looking for a very enthusiastic & committed person, would suit recent graduate/career changer. Must have some rel experience. Contact: Cath Knight, Project Officer or Tracey Neil, Happy Flower Project Officer 020 72529186 lwtwildgarden@cix.co.uk

Volunteer Walk Leader                           Camley Street Natural Park, Camden      Lead a weekly or fortnightly walk ideally pointing out both local & natural history interests along the way. Receive basic H&S & event procedure in house training. Ideally 1 walk per week on a regular basis. Have to be fairly fit & have a warm & approachable personality. Contact:  Tom Clarke, Project Manager 020 78332311 camleyst@wildlondon.org.uk

Visitor Centre Volunteer                          Camley Street Natural Park, Camden      Staff & take responsibility for visitor centre. As a focus for many education, events & volunteering activities, need to ensure it best reflects the work of London WT. Displays need to be updated & the centre kept clean & welcoming, with ideally a person on hand to greet & inform visitors. Would suit a creative person with ideas on how to communicate with people of different backgrounds & ages. Excellent work experience. Min commitment is 1 dpw, max is 5 dpw for at least 2 months. CRB check may be needed. Contact: Tom Clarke, Project Manager 020 78332311 camleyst@wildlondon.org.uk

Membership Volunteer                            Southwark                                 Help with day to day running of membership dept. Incl: assembling membership packs, photocopying, data entry, filing & other admin. 1 dpw. Must be Computerate, database skills desirable but not essential. Accuracy & attention to detail essential & character reference required. Contact: Roxanne Cullen, Membership Officer 020 78034274 rcullen@wildlondon.org.uk

Biological Records Volunteer                  Southwark                     Greenspace Information for Greater London (GIGL) is an open space & biodiversity records centre that collects, manages & makes available detailed info about London's plants, animals, wildlife habitats & open spaces. Currently the centre is identifying & inputting key datasets on London's wildlife, help with this work involving data entry on Recorder 2002, GIGL's metadatabase & MapInfo GIS 1+ dpw for 2 mths. Must be Computerate. Contact: Mandy Rudd 020 78034278 mrudd@wildlondon.org.uk                

ALL: ASK          Individual contact or 020 72610447 enquiries@wildlondon.org.uk www.wildlondon.org.uk

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      VOLUNTEER WARDEN

BE4      ?                                              LOC      MORDEN HALL PARK, LONDON          

PAY     0 but shared accom available      FOR     NATIONAL TRUST        

DES     All aspects of estate management  work – working in open parkland incl maintenance of meadows, regeneration of wetland areas, river & bank maintenance & habitat clearance & creation. Training provided

BUT      Enthusiastic & willing to learn essential. Clean driving licence necessary.   ASK     020 85456850 Maureen.patel@nationaltrust.org.uk        

 

England – South West:

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-20/2                      JOB      COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER OFFICER

BE4      ?                                              LOC      KINGSBRIDGE, SOUTH DEVON

PAY     0                                              FOR     BTCV

DES     Assist the Community Project Officer in delivering a project that aims to use the cside to promote social inclusion through active involvement. Excellent opportunity to gain a unique range of skills & experiences by using the env to work with a large cross section of communities. Significant training opportunities. Assist with all areas of the project incl leading / co-leading twice-weekly practical conservation activities focussing on a Kingsbridge-based site, recruiting new vols, project publicity & on-going monitoring & evaluation.     BUT      Enthusiastic & good communication & org skills essential. Practical conservation & leadership experience an advantage.        ASK     Jemma Sharman, BTCV, 89 Houndiscombe Road, Mutley, Plymouth  PL4 6HB  01752 301416  J.Sharman@btcv.org.uk

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-20/2                      JOB      MIDWEEK VOLUNTEER OFFICER

BE4      ?                                              LOC      PLYMOUTH

PAY     0                                              FOR     BTCV                                                    DES     Enthusiastic & friendly vols to help run Plymouth's BTCV mid-week conservation group which carries out practical conservation tasks such as hedgelaying, woodland management, footpath building, pond clearance etc in the beautiful local area. Duties incl organising & running a practical midweek conservation programme (Weds & / or Thurs). This involves: liaising with landowners to identify project work; undertaking site visits to assess viability of practical work; leading & motivating groups of vols carrying out practical conservation activities; providing assistance & instruction. In exchange vols will receive free training in all necessary skills plus the opportunity to study for NVQ II in Env Conservation & gain valuable experience.    BUT   Min commitment 6 months, 2/3 days per week. Pref 21+ with full clean driving licence for 2+ years.  ASK  Fran Bryant, BTCV, 89 Houndiscombe Road, Mutley, Plymouth  PL4 6HB  01752 301416  F.Bryant@btcv.org.uk

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      VOLUNTEER SURVEY & PLANNING ASSISTANT          

BE4      ?                                              LOC      WELLINGTON, SOMERSET      

PAY     0                                              FOR     SOMERSET ENVIRONMENTAL RECORDS CENTRE (SERC)     

DES     Want a career in conservation / ecology? SERC offers a package of ecological training & work experience for graduates committed to a career in conservation. SERC training scheme is widely seen as providing exactly the type of experience employers require & has a +/- 100% success rate in getting trainees into paid careers in conservation. Key skills provided in botanical survey, GIS & planning process.            BUT      Graduated.        ASK     www.somerc.com SAE to SERC, Tonedale Mill, Wellington TA21 0AW 01823 664450           

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-13/3                      JOB      VOLUNTEER WARDEN

BE4      start asap after end April             LOC      ARNE RESERVE, WAREHAM  

PAY     0 but accom provided.                FOR     RSPB  

DES     Long term placement. Opportunity offers practical experience & training, ideal for someone planning a career in conservation either during or following an academic qual. Many previous such vols have moved onto paid employment within the conservation sector. Gain experience, training provided as appropriate & may incl chainsaws, ATV, Tractors, Brucshcutter. Practical experience would be gained in variety of aspects of reserve management.             BUT      Willing to commit for 9+ mths. Min age 18 but 21 years with full driving licence pref.            ASK     CV & letter to Jack Edwards, RSPB Arne, Syldata, Arne, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ

 

REF      VOL-DIRECT-0K-3                     JOB      VOLUNTEER GROUP MEMBERS

BE4      N/A                                           LOC      HESTERCOMBE, TAUNTON

PAY     0                                              FOR     HESTERCOMBE GARDENS TRUST

DES     Thursdays only, 10am-4pm. Historic estate & visitor attraction. We manage over 100 acres of the estate, approx half of which is devoted to the faithfully restored historic gardens & landscape. Assist the landscape garden team with restoration projects & general maintenance work in the landscape gardens & on the wider estate. Work will incl dry-stone walling, coppicing, scrub clearance & footpath repairs.          BUT      No formal quals or skills necessary but the work is often strenuous & physically demanding. Some experience of cside management & estate management work an advantage but not essential. Informal training in estate skills will be provided by the garden team.          ASK     Graham Burton, Assistant Estates Manager, 01823 413923 grahamburton@hestercombegardens.com

 

Channel Islands:

National – surveys: 

National – training:

The Countryside Management Association “The voice of Countryside Professionals for over 40 years”

Formed in 1966, the Countryside Management Association (CMA) has grown into the leading membership organisation for individuals involved in the sustainable management of the countryside and urban greenspace in England and Wales. One of the aims of CMA is to:

 

“be an effective and professional membership organisation offering its members a structure for their Continuing Professional Development”

 

One of the ways of doing this is by providing information, training and authoritative comment on countryside and urban greenspace issues. CMA members throughout the regions host training or study days. Training days are orientated to specific topics/disciplines that offer a learning opportunity whilst study days focus on specific sites or projects that share management experience; best practice & networking opportunities. These days are run by existing CMA members and provide an excellent opportunity of refining or adding new skills to an individual’s cv  free of charge.

Students; Volunteers and those just embarking on their careers can join CMA as an Affiliate Member. A special “CJS” discounted rate of just £17.50 for unwaged affiliates and £25 if waged, will enable you to take advantage of 12 months of CMA training and study days together with the added benefit of networking with professional countryside practitioners from around your region.

 

Additional CMA membership benefits include RANGER magazine which is published quarterly and includes articles, news, reviews and regular features. Professional Development of members is encouraged through an ongoing and systematic Continuing Professional Development structure whilst the CMA annual residential training seminar on current topical subjects offers an opportunity to meet colleagues from a range of professional disciplines for networking and socialising.

 

Since its formation over 40 years ago, the association has seen many changes in our profession. It has continued to adapt to meet the challenges arising from these changes, and with a membership of over 600 is proud to be recognised throughout the industry as the voice of the Countryside Professional.

www.countrysidemanagement.org.uk

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APPLY NOW at the SPECIAL “CJS” promotional DISCOUNT

 

CJS Promotional Annual Membership - to run from joining date until 31 March 2007

 

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