Courses

Samantha was working as an administrator when she first heard about SAC. She had spent some time volunteering for the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the East Lothian Council Countryside Ranger Service and had decided to look for a course which would enable her to learn more about the environment and wildlife.

 
"I needed to keep working full time though, so I didn't think there would be a course to fit in with this. Once I found out about the course at SAC, I applied straight away.

"I have enjoyed the practical modules on Leadership Skills, Interpretation, & Identification Skills as well as the academic modules on Biology and Ecology. I now look differently at the countryside, understanding its geology, land use and the habitat it provides. A particular highlight for me has been learning to identify flowers by drawing them. The attention to detail has given me a new appreciation of nature.

"Before starting the course I was looking forward to the Identification Skills and Ecology modules as the ones most relevant to my original reason for studying. However, the Interpretation and Countryside Recreation modules have shown me that my volunteering is as much about habitat and wildlife management as providing an enjoyable, safe and educational place for people.

"Flexible learning is a way to try out something new for fun or with a view to changing career, while still working full time. You get support from tutors by email, phone and at three annual study weekends. I found the delivery of the course and resources online to be excellent. If you are organized, self motivated and able to commit to studying for two years this is an ideal stepping stone to a career change in countryside management while also working full time.

"My advice would be to volunteer at a reserve or country park before and during your studies to give you some experience to relate the theory to. After originally studying the course to gain confidence, I enjoyed it so much I wanted to change my career direction to work in conservation. Last year I made a successful application for a Natural Talent apprenticeship with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers and I now study mycology at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh."