In this blog conservation student Riley talks us through his second and longer work experience placement with Glendale’s Nature Conservation Officer.
Monday 3rd of February
Today at the office I learned how to remove seeds from Wildflowers, and then put
them into a separate tray to be put into a bag for planting later in the year. I then
went out into the vehicle to attain some young tree whips that was temporarily stored in a
secure area, which we then brought to deposit at Brookmill park. I then learned how
to organise and prepare tools and equipment for the following practical session with
volunteers, such as checking Wellingtons and how many and what sizes were
needed for the day.
Tuesday 4th of February
Today I processed Willow into stakes. We then used the Stakes and left over sticks
to create structures that will be a beneficial food source for invertebrates. I learned
how to use a Sledge-hammer to put in Stakes. I also got the opportunity to give the
volunteers of Rivers & People a Health and Safety talk, and Tool talk.
Wednesday 5th of February
This morning I laminated flower sheets that will be used for a future practical
session. I then finished sorting the Wildflower seeds from the Monday, and then
assisted in the Bird watch at Lady well fields that was partnered with SLAMS. When
we got back to the office, I written down what to say for the Thursday’s Tool talk and
Health and Safety talk to ensure I am more effective at giving important information. I
also learned how to put bird survey data into a system called the “National
Biodiversity Network database”.
Thursday 6th of February
Today we removes Bramble in a “U” shape to allow new plants to develop and thrive.
I then raked the area to clear of any debris, which also helped to see any more litter
than needed to be removed. I afterwards made teas for volunteers and later at the
lodge washed them up. I learned how to make a practice risk assessment with a
chosen scenario; my one was clearing Bramble and placing the vegetation into the
dead hedge.
Friday 7th of February
Today we conducted a bird survey at Mountfield park, we saw a few interesting birds
including two Red wings, a Mistle thrust, Woodpecker and two Goldfinches!
Afterwards, we went inside and I assisted with developing posters of ten lost natural
history words, which will later in the year (possibly summer time) be put in the most
populated parks within Lewisham.
I then finished of the Risk assessment I started producing yesterday, and then Emily
went through my CV for me and gave me useful pointers; including two print out
examples of conservation jobs, and how to depict what to include in your CV and/ or
cover letter to stand out to the job.
Conclusion: Emily Millhouse was a delightful person to do work experience with, and I couldn’t have chosen a better organisation to do my weeks’ experience with; alongside my
Wildlife and Conservation Level 3 Diploma course. This was one of the best work
experiences so far!
Rivers and People 