Hi, I’m Erin, and I study Countryside Management. What I enjoy most about the course is the practical work, especially working with machinery. I get to use tools like brush cutters and hedge trimmers, which I find really rewarding and exciting.
I chose this course because I’ve always been interested in conservation and the countryside, and I wanted a broad course that could give me a foundation in that area. I’ve done some past work related to conservation, so it felt like the right choice for me.
The college has supported me well so far, providing both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills I need. A typical week usually involves theory sessions on Tuesdays and practical work on Wednesdays and Thursdays. One memorable practical day was when we did hedge laying, as it was really interesting to learn how to cut and fold a hedge to create a natural barrier instead of a fence.
Currently, I work at Mapperton Estate in Dorset on their rewilding project, helping bring back species that used to live there, like Longhorn cattle, Jacob sheep, pigs, chickens, and pheasants. It’s so rewarding to help restore natural habitats and see the impact of our work.
My lecturers and classmates are fantastic, and they’ve helped me make lots of friends, which I really value. Overall, I enjoy college life because it offers freedom and practical opportunities, which make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
We’ve been on some fantastic trips. The one I remember most was visiting RSPCA West Hatch to help clear out the deer enclosure. We used hedge trimmers, loppers, and cut down trees and brambles to help improve their habitat. These trips give me real insight into what working in this industry is like and the kind of work I could do in the future.
ERIN
COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT