Calling all year 11s to have a go at Countryside Management!
Walford and North Shropshire College will be launching a new initiative this winter designed to raise awareness for those considering a career in countryside management. Throughout December, January and February, lecturers involved in delivering the National Diploma in Countryside Management will be hosting free “have a go” days for those wishing to work in conservation and wildlife management. The days which are aimed specifically at 15-19 year olds, will enable students to gain experience in the use of hand tools, habitat management and identification skills. The tasks will involve hedgerow restoration, tree planting, woodland management and boundary maintenance.
Paul O’Hagan, course manager for the National Diploma explains. The aim of the “have a go” days is to give potential students a really clear idea about what they would be doing if they chose to do this course. It’s about giving them an informed idea about the type of work they might be involved in if they decided to pursue a career in the countryside management sector. We already have a well established taster day provision set up with Shropshire schools, but these days will allow potential students more time to look at the course in more depth. We’ll be doing practical work on a range of habitats on the Walford Farm estate and even if participants decide it’s not for them, at the very least they’ll pick up some new skills and a little bit more understanding about the countryside.
The first “have a go” day will run on Saturday 10th December. Potential “have a goers” should e-mail Paul O’Hagan at p.ohagan@wnsc.ac.uk or call 01939 262100 to confirm attendance. The day will start at 9.30am and participants should meet at the Harris Centre, main reception at the Walford Campus on Saturday 10th December. It is advisable to bring appropriate clothing and footwear. Directions to the Walford Campus, Baschurch are available on the website, www.wnsc.ac.uk or the postcode SY4 2HL can be used with satnav devices.
Applications are being taken now for full-time courses starting in September 2012. To find out more about the Countryside Management course or any course at Walford and North Shropshire College, visit the website at www.wnsc.ac.uk where you can apply on-line.