Rebecca Woodgate, who is studying a Foundation Degree in Animal Conservation with University Centre Somerset, has successfully balanced completing her first year study with working as a Visitor Experience Officer with Somerset Wildlife Trust.

Rebecca previously completed her Level 3 Countryside Management course at Bridgwater & Taunton College and regularly volunteers for the Trust and Butterfly Conservation, as well as working as a reserve warden.

She recently led a tour of Catcott Nature Reserve for the College’s first year Level 3 students, sharing her wealth of knowledge of the area and its inhabitants, and offering advice.

She said,

“To get into a competitive industry you have to be very determined.  With a combination of academic and practical qualifications, plenty of volunteering experience and a passion for conservation, it can be done.  It was great to be able to offer advice to the students who visited Catcott and who are just starting out, as well as talk about the habitat management and species at one of my favourite reserves”.   

Alan Sinclair, Course Leader said,

“It is wonderful to see students who have worked hard achieve success and build a real career for themselves in the industry. Rebecca has put in many hours both at College and out in the countryside, and we look forward to working with her for the second year of her degree.”

You can find information about land-based courses at Bridgwater & Taunton College here or call 01278 441234.

To find out more about the Somerset Wildlife Trust, visit www.somersetwildlife.org