CJS Weekly - Special Editions


Countryside Jobs Service
CJS Weekly: Special Edition Supplements. 21/2/05 - Seasonal and Volunteering work.

Jobs	Training	Advertising	CJS Stuff	Information
Jobs	Training	Advertising	CJS Stuff	Information

Countryside Jobs Service Weekly Special Edition 21 February 2005

Endorsed by both the Scottish Countryside Rangers

Association & the Countryside Management Association

Seasonal and Volunteer Work Supplement

Seasonal work – what do you do when there’s no more work at Santa’s grotto?

Many employment sectors rely upon seasonal labour to meet the changing demands of the job, and, with the possible exception of working as an elf at Christmas time, there’s nothing as reliable as seasonal outside work in the visitor attraction trade. Despite endless marketing promoting the likes of ‘Scumlington – a great break for all the family all year round!’ it’s always been true that a sunny summer weekend during the school holidays can have even the smallest visitor attraction packed out, whilst the same place is deserted on a Monday morning just a few months later.
To cope with this seasonality most countryside services and country parks rely heavily upon seasonal workers. Although much conservation work is best done in the winter, there is always more work in the summer than can justify full-time staff all year round. Some of this is unskilled work, some quite the opposite. Car parking, litter clearance, education work, catering and event management are all highly seasonal. Education, in particular, is important, as it can, in the few weeks of the summer term, bring in enough money to support the park for much of the rest of the year. Most schools like to make their annual trip out during that term, meaning that competent outdoor environmental education staff are in much demand in country parks for that time. Country parks often play host to outdoor events such as county shows, car rallies and firework displays, and these take a lot of willing hands to work smoothly. Event management is a high-pressure, job which can offer short-term employment, good wages, and the chance to get into some exciting events!
Seasonal and part time work can be a great opportunity to get experience of a new type of work and improve your CV. Many full-time staff started off as seasonal, voluntary or part-time, building experience and networking, whilst finding out about the countryside sector from the inside.
Matthew Chatfield, Editor www.naturenet.net

About a career in conservation volunteering

Volunteering is an ideal way to gain experience and find out what conservation is all about.
If you are thinking of a career in conservation, it is invaluable to have some experience to put on your CV or record of achievement. Volunteering gives you this, as well as helping to build your confidence, enhance your knowledge and develop professional skills.
Here are some of the benefits:
Experience - try out a wide variety of conservation work to get broad experience - it will help you decide which aspect of conservation you want to go into.
Knowledge - learn about conservation by spending time with like-minded people and professional conservationists.
Insight - find out what working in conservation is really like. You might find it's not for you after all! Whatever you discover, it's bound to help your future decision-making.
Employment prospects - whether you are applying for a job or a place at university, voluntary work is something very positive to have on your personal record of achievement, CV or application form, as it shows commitment.
Contacts - if an organisation knows how enthusiastic and capable you are, the word soon gets around. Use the grapevine to your advantage.
Commitment - getting involved as a volunteer is one of the best ways to show that you are serious about working in conservation.
Contributing - many organisations, including the RSPB, depend on volunteers. Your efforts will be of real benefit to wildlife and the environment.
Fun! - whether your time on a reserve is a working holiday, helping in your spare time, or a longer-term placement, you'll have a great time as a volunteer.
Source: RSPB Volunteering Development
For More information please email: volunteers@rspb.org.uk or call: 01767 692341

Qualifications v Experience

Your very first full-time job in this field is often difficult to find. There are an awful lot of other people, just like you, chasing a limited number of jobs. So how can you improve your chances of being one of the successful ones? Read on!

Then consider the poor employer. They also have a difficult task, deciding which half dozen applicants to invite for interview. How can they possibly decide which to select from lots of remarkably similar application forms? Only by selecting those few individuals who appear to meet all of the job requirements. In other words, those applicants who are both qualified and experienced – and therein lies the dilemma:

If you are busy getting your qualifications, then how do you get the experience?

The solution found by very many of today’s countryside and conservation professionals is to spend some time as a volunteer. This could be as a voluntary ranger working at a local park or nature reserve at weekends, or as a longer term volunteer for a block of several months. Most voluntary positions are unpaid but some do provide basic accommodation and a few may provide expenses. What all these positions do provide is real, live, indispensable, hands-on, cont. p2

Cont.. mud-on-your-wellies experience to go with your qualifications. Then, when you next apply for a paid job, your application form will not only show that you are one of the few who has both qualifications and experience, but your volunteering will also speak volumes about your level of dedication, too.

The downside, of course, is that too many dedicated applicants chasing too few jobs will tend to reduce the pay levels for all concerned and this is a lively topic on our website’s Discussion Board. Visit www.countryside-jobs.com for more.

Niall Carson, CJS.

Do you have a green dream? Finding it difficult to see the wood from the trees? Do you dream to be working for environmental organisations? My Green Dream will help you connect with individuals already working in the field of conservation This is your chance to have a Mentor who will guide you through the trials of entering into the world of conservation www.mygreendream.co.uk Sorry - this site no longer appears to be working, Oct 05.		VSO is an international development charity working through volunteers. Alongside local partners, we aim to encourage more sustainable methods to help disadvantaged people make a viable living and look to the future. Visit www.vso.org.uk/environmentjobs/ to find out if you have the skills to change lives and make this difference...

Blue Ventures is an award winning not-for-profit organisation dedicated to facilitating projects and expeditions that enhance global marine conservation and research. Blue Ventures continues to offer opportunities and field experiences to people wanting to become actively involved in marine conservation.		The National Trust is Europe's largest conservation charity which relies on the support of volunteers to carry out its vital work. The National Trust welcomes volunteers of all ages from all walks of life. For further information email volunteers@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 0870 609 5383

Scotland:

REF VOL-DIRECT-OK-7 JOB VOLUNTEERS
BE4 July 2005 LOC SCOTLAND
PAY 0 FOR BTCV SCOTLAND
DES / BUT We need volunteers for our Projects in Glasgow, Stirling, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Oatridge. From these areas we run a variety of environmental projects & activities. All necessary training given, & all expenses are reimbursed. ASK (Quote Ref: CJS) Tel: 01786 479697 Email: Scotland@btcv.org.uk
REF VOL-DIRECT-28/3 JOB RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
BE4 25/3/05 LOC ROWARDENNAN, LOCH LOMOND OR GLASGOW
PAY 0 + accom / reasonable travel FOR UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW
DES research project investigating the importance of nestling diet composition in blue tits. Fieldwork (Apr-June) incls: nestbox checking, measuring nestlings, hand-feeding nestlings. Also available for aviary-based work (Jun-Aug): rearing birds & behavioural observations. BUT For fieldwork must be reasonably fit & able to climb ladders. Interest in animal ecology & pref biological sciences background. Must be available for minimum of 2 weeks. ASK Dr Scot Ramsay, Division of Environmental & Evolutionary Biology, Graham Kerr Building, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ email: s.ramsay@bio.gla.ac.uk To apply CV with covering letter & contact details (incl email) of 2 referees. Email applications preferred.

SCOTTISH WILDLIFE TRUST. We offer training and work experience on our wildlife reserves under NEW DEAL / TRAINING FOR WORK. Lantra skills certificates offered in Chainsaw, brushcutter, treeplanting, footpath construction, post and wire fencing amongst others. Government eligibility rules apply. For more information email pgilbert@swt.org.uk .

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Volunteer Programme offers a variety of Volunteering Opportunities. Come and get involved in activities such as Practical Conservation Tasks, Wildlife Surveys, Interpretation and Events. To find out more get in touch with Zoe Morris, Volunteer Development Officer, Tel: 01389 722600 or email zoe.morris@lochlomond-trossachs.org .

Northern Ireland:

REF VOL-DIRECT-14/3 JOB 2 LONG TERM VOLUNTEERS
BE4 14/3/05 LOC MURLOUGH & SLIEVE DONARD, COUNTY DOWN
PAY 0 FOR THE NATIONAL TRUST
DES The area covers wide range of beautiful & interesting habitats form coastal heathland at Murlough (Irelands first nature reserve) to the uplands of the Mourne Mountains. Free accom, NPTC & LANTRA approved training in a wide variety of conservation related tasks. BUT Would suit someone with an interest in natural history, who wishes to gain practical quals & experience in order to pursue a career in conservation. ASK Malachy Martin or Stephen Longster, The National Trust, Southdown, The Stableyard, Keel Point, Dundrum, County Down, BT33 0NQ 028 43751467

Wales:

REF se-DIRECT-14/3 JOB PART-TIME INFORMATION ASSISTANTS –contract
BE4 11/3/05 IV: 21/3/05 LOC Ynys-hir, Wales (May to August) / Mawddach Valley, Gwynedd (April to August)
PAY 10500 – 11500 pro-rata FOR RSPB
DES Responsible for the supervision & reception of visitors. Duties will include welcoming visitors to the Centre, showing them birds visible at that time & providing them with the information about reserves, delivering successful retail/membership recruitment & retention programme. BUT Knowledge of birds & natural history is essential, but a basic understanding can be built upon. Daily travel to the reserve will be necessary. ASK www.rspb.org.uk A4 SAE to Tracey Grimsley, RSPB Cymru North Wales Office, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DW.
REF VOL-DIRECT-28/2 JOB VOLUNTEER WARDENS
BE4 28/2/05 IV 7-8/3/05 (overnight stay) LOC FLAT HOLM ISLAND
PAY 0 + accommodation / food / travel FOR CARDIFF COUNTY COUNCIL DES Great opportunity to live & work on an island nature Reserve (SSSI & LNR) in the Bristol Channel. Demanding yet rewarding position. Gain experience in: practical habitat work; livestock husbandry; leading guided tours for visitors; leading vol work parties, wildlife monitoring; env education; building maintenance. Rota: vols work 10 days on island followed by 4 days leave (all weather dependent). BUT Enthusiasm, flexibility & 6+ months commitment, with strong social skills. ASK CV & covering letter to: Flat Holm Project, Pier Head, Barry Docks, Barry CF62 5QS 01446 747661 www.cardiff.gov.uk/flatholm

England – Anglia

Broads Authority Seasonal Vacancies (March - October 2005). Volunteer opportunities also available. For further details and an application form please visit our website www.broads-authority.gov.uk or telephone (01603) 610734.

REF VOL-DIRECT-28/2 JOB ASSISTANT WARDEN
BE4 1/3/05 LOC WICKEN FEN NNR
PAY 0 FOR THE NATIONAL TRUST
DES / BUT One long term vol (ideally 6 months) to assist with programme of habitat re-creation & regeneration & traditional management. An ideal opportunity to gain experience at one of the county’s premier nature reserves. Post incl accommodation on a house share basis. ASK 01353 720274 martin.lester@nationaltrust.org.uk CV & letter to: Martin Lester, Wicken Fen NNR, Lode Lane, Wicken, Cambs CB7 5XP

Conservation Volunteers - BSE/Haverhill, Suffolk: We are running several conservation projects on a number of sites. We provide training, tools and protective gear. Bring a packed lunch and wear suitable clothing. You will need to be reasonably fit. No minimum commitment is required. Contact the Park Rangers (01284 763666). Email: anna.valdiserri@stedsbc.gov.uk.

Volunteer Park Rangers - Suffolk: Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill. Activities include practical conservation, patrols and events. No qualifications required, just a keen interest in the countryside, a willingness to get involved and reasonable fitness. We provide training, tools and protective gear. Contact the Park Rangers (01284 763666). Email: anna.valdiserri@stedsbc.gov.uk.

REF T-DIRECT-21/3 JOB 3 Project Development Assistant INTERNSHIPS
BE4 21/3/05 LOC SUFFOLK HQ
PAY 0 but individually tailored training programmes FOR WORLD LAND TRUST
DES / BUT An international charity working to protect threatened habitats in countries such as Belize, Argentina, India, Ecuador & Philippines. Gain valuable experience of project & conservation management working on real life issues arising from overseas projects. Placements available are: General, Carbon Sequestration & Web Development / IT. Receive assistance in finding employment on completion of six-month period. ASK Info & apply: www.worldlandtrust.org/supporting/internships
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB ASSISTANT COUNTRYSIDE RANGER
BE4 18/3/05 LOC NORFOLK
PAY 0 but training (incl NVQ 2 Env Conservation) FOR BROADS AUTHORITY
DES Involves practical countryside management, visitor services, interpretation, environmental education, liaison with local community & involvement with events programme. BUT Self-motivated, flexible approach to work, full driving licence & experience of outdoor working. ASK Volunteer Co-ordinator, 01493 367810, maggie.engledow@broads-authority.gov.uk
REF VOL-DIRECT-OK-8 JOB VOLUNTEER PARK RANGERS
BE4 August 2005 LOC Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds & East Town Park, Haverhill, Suffolk
PAY 0 FOR ST EDMUNDBURY BOROUGH COUNCIL PARKS SECTION
DES Vacancies exist for long-term vols, min commitment 4 weeks, to assist the Park Rangers in delivering an effective, high quality service in partnership with local communities. Based at the above, but covering a variety of sites, your duties will inc: patrolling sites, assisting members of the public, assisting the Park Rangers in running events & activities, carrying out practical conservation tasks, assisting in the management of the Park Ranger Centre. BUT A keen interest in the cside, a willingness to assist in a wide range of tasks & to work alone & as part of a team. Rel qualification or current enrolment in a rel course would be beneficial. ASK (Quote Ref: CJS) Anna Valdiserri, Park Ranger, St Edmundbury Borough Council Parks Section, Borough Offices, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1XB Tel: 01284 763666 anna.valdiserri@stedsbc.gov.uk
England – Midlands
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 FOR BTCV NORTHAMPTOSNHIRE
BE4 Ongoing LOC MOULTON, NORTHAMPTON
JOB DES / BUT
Conservation Projects Volunteer Officer Work alongside BTCV staff on all aspects of practical conservation work. Gain valuable practical skills, knowledge of relevant health & safety, experience of project planning & management and accredited training in first aid, leadership & minibus driving. BUT Enthusiasm more important than experience, ideally you will be resident in Northamptonshire or be prepared to relocate. Driving licence held for 2+ years and over 21 (for minibus driving insurance requirements) desirable.
Community Projects Volunteer Officer To promote & actively involve local community groups in practical action to improve their local environment. Organise & lead practical activities; support & encourage local groups & school groups; produce promotional material; give talks & input ideas into initiation & development of new projects. Also maintain records of work done, produce reports; promote partnerships between BTCV & groups. Must have good understanding of conservation principals; able to lead & supervise volunteers & to work with community & schools groups. Able to keep accurate records. Practical, motivational & IT skills desirable as is ability to train other people & to maintain tools & equipment. Subject to CRB check. BOTH: ASK Austin Haffenden, 01604 643653, A.Haffenden@btcv.org.uk, BTCV, c/o Moulton College, Moulton, Northampton, NN3 7RR
REF VOL-DIRECT-OK-6 JOB FIVE FULL TIME VOLUNTEERS
BE4 June 2005 LOC SHROPSHIRE HILLS (Nr Church Stretton) & DUDMASTON ESTATE (Nr Bridgnorth)
PAY 0 Accommodation provided FOR THE NATIONAL TRUST
DES For 6+ month period to gain experience in woodland & heathland management, conservation & practical skills. Training offered inc chainsaw, first aid, 4x4 off road driving, strimmers / brushcutters & manual handling.
BUT Keen, enthusiastic & motivated with a definite sense of humour. Full, clean driving licence essential.
ASK (Quote Ref: CJS) Julie Lynch, The National Trust, West Midlands Region, Unit 312 The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Birmingham B9 4AA Email: julie.lynch@nationaltrust.org.uk

BTCV East Midlands has year-round opportunities for volunteers in the fields of practical conservation, publicity, environmental education and community development. Working as a Volunteer Officer for six months to a year you can gain the experience and training required to secure your first job in the environmental sector. To find out about volunteering opportunities in your area contact Sue Corner at on 01629 826711 or e-mail at East-Midlands@btcv.org.uk

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB NATURE RESERVE VOLUNTEERS
BE4 Continuous LOC LEICESTERSHIRE / RUTLAND
PAY Volunteer FOR LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND WILDLIFE TRUST
DES Learn new skills, meet new people and improve your local environment with our mid-week volunteer group. We carryout practical management on nature reserves across Leicestershire and Rutland. No experience is need, training is given, tools are provided and level of commitment is up to you. ASK Nathalie Cossa 0116 272 0444 or ncossa@lrwt.org.uk

BTCV Volunteer Officer Programme
BTCV turns global environmental ideals into local ideas. Our vision is a better environment, where people are valued, included and involved. Each year we successfully deliver thousands of projects and activities across the UK and in dozens of countries across the world.
BTCV is the UK’s leading charity working with people to bring about positive environmental change. Across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland, BTCV helps 130,000 volunteers of all ages and backgrounds take practical action to improve their own environments.
Our work inspires people of today who will be the policy-makers of tomorrow. Many former volunteers and staff are now influential decision-makers in local, regional, national and international organisations. We look to them to support our approach and promote environmental volunteering as an essential part of active citizenship.
The Volunteer Officer programme brings you into the organisation and gives you experience of organising real projects. Each VO when accepted has an individual plan for learning and a manager to support their development. VO’s are involved in many aspects of BTCV work. Working alongside professional staff in partnership with many other environmental sector organisations.
Some typical roles and opportunities are:
Project Leadership: Can you manage a group of volunteers to carry out a practical conservation project?
Cover all the topics through a programme of training and experience: Leading people, organising a project safely, training and education, volunteer welfare, dealing with the public and media.
Project leadership is core to many of BTCV’s roles and develops from day projects, to residentials, our green gym projects, community projects and international projects.
Project Organisation: Can you set up a project?
Cover all the topics through working on real sites: Conservation practice, risk assessment, negotiation, design, costing and fundraising.
Project Management: Every project requires the right information to be recorded and reported to funders/stakeholders etc. Planning, budgeting and reviewing.
Publicity and PR: Working in a low budget sector can you raise the profile of your project?
Profile is needed for funders, to attract volunteers, and engage the community. Convince journalists to report your story, experience radio and TV interviews.
Practical skills: Can you lay hedges, build drystone walls and fences, repair footpaths, build bridges, fell and plant trees, build and restore ponds,
Community involvement: Can you engage with people to involve them in a conservation project?
Reach out to disaffected young people, people with special needs, asylum seekers and ethnic minorities, people who have been socially excluded. Involve them in a local community project where they can affect their own environment.
Community development: Can you develop a group of individuals with a specific issue into an independent sustainable group? Learn how to facilitate change in people, to support but not smother, to empower in a real way.
Training people: Can you organise and deliver a range of training courses?
Learn how to organise a programme of courses, deal with bookings, venues, and events. Assist with the delivery of suitable topics.
Not all roles and opportunities are available at all offices, since you will be working on real projects; it will depend on what is ongoing at any moment in time in your chosen location and the specialist skills of your manager.
We have no age restriction on our VO programme, being computer literate and able to drive can help in some roles. Agreed training and participation is free on all activities including international activities.
Training is delivered by the BTCV Institute for Environmental Conservation, these assessed, certificated, quality assured courses build into units of nationally accredited qualifications.
Joining BTCV as a Volunteer Officer will help you develop important skills which will increase your confidence and make you more readily employable. At the same time you will develop a good understanding of environmental issues and of the techniques involved in practical conservation.
In the year 2004 – BTCV managed 376 VO’s. 83% went on to further education or employment, of those 50% to an environmental job of those BTCV recruited 19%.

England – North

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB VOLUNTEERS
BE4 21/3/05 LOC HOLLYBUSH CENTRE, LEEDS
PAY 0 FOR BTCV
DES What are you doing on a Monday, Wednesday or Sunday? Interested in wildlife gardening or working in a small nursery? Help in the Centre's garden & nursery. You will be working with a trained horticulturalist, gain valuable work experience & have the opportunity to attend free training courses. ASK Diane Morris 0113 2742335

Seasonal Access Ranger

6 month contract £13,737 to £15,675 (with possible progression to £18,450)

Salary includes a supplement for weekend working Based at appropriate regional base

We are looking to recruit three full time and one part time Seasonal Rangers, to join the existing National Park ranger service. The part time post is on a job share basis.

You need to be enthusiastic and adaptable, have experience in Countryside Management and a good knowledge of access issues. The ability to work on your own initiative, to meet targets and produce high quality work is essential. You will be required to carry out a range of practical countryside skills and be able to provide information and guidance to the public relating to the use of open access land and public rights of way. The role will include undertaking specific duties relating to the implementation of open access through the Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000.

A qualification in Countryside Management and knowledge of CROW legislation is desirable. A full driving licence is required and applicants should be IT literate.

This post is subject to a CRB Disclosure.

For information pack and application form please contact Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Yorebridge House, Bainbridge, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 3EE. Tel 01969 650456 Closing date: 16^th March 2005 (noon)

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB VOLUNTEERS
BE4 21/3/05 LOC UPPER TEESDALE
PAY 0 but can generally provide accom FOR GAME CONSERVANCY TRUST
DES During each bird breeding season we always need extra help. Our main interest is in grouse but we also collect data relating to other upland birds, incl lapwing, golden plover & other wading birds. For spring / summer.
BUT Need some knowledge of upland birds (ie to be able to identify them), be very fit because vast distances are covered in the sighting, tracking & monitoring of grouse. ASK Julia Hopkins: jhopkins@gct.org.uk (01833 622208)

BTCV South Manchester Conservation Volunteers

Volunteering and Training days each week Tuesday - Thursday Meet 9.30am by coach station in Chorlton St, Central Manchester Bring packed lunch and warm clothes. Tea and coffee provided. Back by 5.00pm Wide variety of tasks. More information: Katie Lowry 07740 899539 s.manchester@btcv.org.uk

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 FOR BTCV YORK
BE4 21/3/05 LOC YORK
JOB: PAY: DES/BUT:
Education Voluntary Officers 0 Help develop & deliver the environmental education projects. The audience is varied from young children in schools & out of schoolclubs to community gps wanting to develop environmental projects in their areas. CRB check required.
Practical Conservation Voluntary Officers 0 Learn how to plan & deliver conservation projects for vols, learning many conservation skills such as woodland management & pond construction. NVQ Level 2 in Environmental Conservation available. Both: Do you enjoy & appreciate the environment? Do you have a desire to help others to enjoy it too? All Voluntary Officers develop many skills incl: leadership, project planning, risk assessment, fundraising & administration. Training is provided in areas such as First Aid at Work & MIDAS Minibus driving (must be over 21years & passed 2+ years') & much more. Minimum placement is 6 mths & full time is preferred but part time is considered. Must be enthusiastic team players with good communication skills & a sense of humour. ASK Rachel Earnshaw or Ruth Cantrell 01904 644300 r.earnshaw@btcv.org.uk
England – South
REF 1086/7-DIRECT-28/2 LOC RUNNEYMEDE, SURREY
BE4 25/2/05 FOR NATIONAL TRUST
JOB PAY DES
Warden / Visitor Services Assistant 11720 pro rata Fixed term contract 11months, Apr-Feb. Join dedicated team at busy cside property gaining experience in visitor management, managing historic landscapes & a wide range of cside management skills. BUT Good communication & cside interpretation, practical conservation & estate skills. Clean driving licence, chainsaw cert & herbicide application cers preferable. An interest in people, history, grassland, wetland & woodland. IV/7/3/05.
Seasonal Countryside Visitor Services Assistant £6.57 per hour Join dedicated team, gaining experience in visitor management & membership recruitment. Working 2 / 3 days per week, Easter to Sept. To meet the challenge of recruiting new members, operating from a reception trailer in Runnymede car park. BUT Good communicator, enthusiastic & able to give information about property. Some selling experience an advantage but full training given. IV/3/3/05. BOTH: : Must be willing to work weekends & bank holidays. ASK Large SAE to: The National Trust, North Lodge, Windsor Road,Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2JL 01784 432891 Fax: 479007 runnymede@nationaltrust.org.uk
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB WEST WEALD WOODS PROJECT ASSISTANT
BE4 21/3/05 LOC WOODS MILL, HENFIELD, WEST SUSSEX
PAY 0 FOR SUSSEX WILDLIFE TRUST
DES Are you a graduate looking for a job in Nature Conservation but don’t have enough experience? Don't miss this chance to volunteer on the new West Weald Woos Project. Work in the Trust office a few days a week. BUT
Enthusiastic with an interest in farming & wildlife & full driving licence. ASK CV & letter: Mark Elliott, West Weald Woods Project Officer, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9SD

Arundel Wetlands Centre seeks volunteer to question visitors entering & leaving for answers to a market research questionnaire. This will help us understand more about our visitors. No set times or days: most of the time you will be outdoors. Phone Geoff Squire 01903 881524 for more details and Volunteer Pack

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 FOR BTCV
BE4 21/3/05 PAY 0
JOB: LOC: DES/BUT:
BTCV Volunteer Officer Swindon Contact: Ben Rawlings 01793 430700
BTCV Volunteer Officer Salisbury Contact: Jon Rich 01722 417601 Both: Work along BTCV staff & be given the opportunity to learn practical conservation skills & gain experience in project management, vol leadership, client liaison & youth work. Responsibilities: leading & supervising vols; attending site visits & preparing site visit reports & risk assessments, liasing with clients & land owners & general office & tool store work . Free training provided incl: First Aid, Health & Safety, leadership skills & practical conservation skills. Will be asked to commit approx 2 dpw, have a genuine interest in the environment & be good team member with good communication skills. Pref 21+ years & have held clean driving licence for 2+ year's.

Do you want to join a friendly team of volunteer conservationists involved in nature conservation projects and wildlife habitat management?

There are volunteering opportunities with BTCV Waltham Forest. If your goals include leading conservation projects, helping community groups or you just want to get your hands dirty, we have many interesting and worthwhile projects and environmental events coming up in 2005 (Year of the volunteer).

Become a regular volunteer, meet like-minded people and learn conservation skills. It will be possible to develop, take on more responsibility and become a Volunteer Officer, which is a proven stepping-stone into paid environmental work. You can take advantage of the many free training courses available, including leading conservation projects, minibus driving skills, wildlife identification, pond creation and woodland management.

Volunteers are always needed and welcomed. No previous experience necessary, just a love of the natural world, a good sense of humour and a pair of sturdy boots.

For an activities programme or more information, contact: M.Blaxall@btcv.org.uk

Mark Blaxall, BTCV Project Officer, Lee Valley / Waltham Forest, 1 Connaught Close, Leyton, London E10 7QS, Tel: 020 8986 7173

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB DEDICATED VOLUNTEER
BE4 21/3/05 LOC OXFORD AREA
PAY 0 FOR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION UNIT, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
DES From late March to assist with pre- and post-re-introduction monitoring of water voles. This exciting new study will look at health & welfare implications of re-introducing captive-bred animals to the wild. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to observe first-hand techniques being used to health-screen & measure stress levels in rare species. All animals will be routinely anaesthetised, with basic biological samples being collected. BUT Ideally, enthusiastic, robust, energetic & committed. Able to carry out fieldwork as part of small, close-knit team also independently , outdoors, in all weather conditions. Must be available for a minimum of two weeks each month for ideally six months. Driving licence essential. ASK Info / apply: www.wildcru.org Please email a CV to: merryl.gelling@zoo.ox.ac.uk & complete a WildCRU volunteers questionnaire (NB: write for the attention of Merryl Gelling in the 'Other information / comments' box).
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB REGENERATION & ENVIRONMENT ASSISTANT
PAY lunch & travel expenses, full training LOC WATERLOO, LONDON
BE4 21/3/05 FOR Waterloo Community Development Trust / Waterloo Green Trust
DES Help deliver environmental & community projects & eventually develop own projects. Projects range from after school environmental clubs, outreach work on estates, capacity building groups & improving local green spaces.
BUT Suit new graduates looking for work experience or anyone looking for change of carer or just something difference. Must be able to commit to 2/3 days per week for 6 months. ASK Kath Rosen 020 7633 9291, kathwcdg@btconnect.com

Volunteering can be a great way to learn new skills and kick start your career.
At the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) there are countless opportunities to get involved in our work whether you want a casual arrangement or something more permanent.
If you are looking to get full-time paid work in conservation and can spare three or four days a week, you could become a conservation trainee with BBOWT. You will get to meet new people from a range of backgrounds, experience new situations and gain many useful skills.
The tasks involved are varied and are all focused on giving you the experience needed to go forward in your career. As a conservation trainee you will have the chance to work on practical jobs such as vegetation control, livestock handling, installing fencing, maintaining public access and undertaking species surveys. On top of this, you will learn management skills such as leadership and communication, and grow in confidence.
BBOWT can offer you training in habitat management, brushcutter and chainsaw use, driving and maintaining a Land Rover, first aid, species surveys and monitoring, site management plan development, and pesticide application. The longer you stay the more you will learn. Working with BBOWT opens many doors for volunteers. Former conservation trainees are working across the three counties as reserve officers, summer wardens and on specific conservation projects as well as in similar posts with other Wildlife Trusts in the UK. To top off your volunteering, BBOWT have created new fixed term, paid posts ideal for experienced conservation trainees. Of the four new posts, three are trainee community reserve wardens working at Warburg, College Lake and Woolley Firs Nature Reserves. These posts are focused on improving visitor and volunteer involvement and enjoyment of the reserves whilst furthering conservation management skills. The fourth post is based at Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre and involves delivering and developing the Centre’s environmental education programme aimed at school children. Alongside looking at how to open up the centre to new visitors and audiences. All four posts are on a one year fixed term contract.
If you can spare one day a week, you can join in one of the midweek teams or a work party on a specific reserve. You can be out on the reserves doing many of the practical tasks of a conservation trainee. BBOWT will give you training for the tasks you are involved in and provide personal safety equipment.
On a more ad-hoc basis, or if you are not sure if conservation work is for you, there are lots of short term volunteering opportunities. You can check on our livestock on reserves, take part in summer surveys, monitor water vole levels, help out in the offices or work with local groups on fundraising across all three counties.
With over 90 nature reserves, acres of countryside and miles of watercourses to survey, and two offices to look after, whatever your skills there will be an opening at BBOWT to suit you. For more information visit the website at www.bbowt.org.uk or call 01865 775475.

REF VOL-DIRECT-21/2 JOB ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION VOLUNTEERS
BE4 21/2/05 LOC Woods Mills, Henfield, W Sussex & Seven Sisters Country Park, Seaford, E Sussex
PAY 0 but travel expenses & training FOR SUSSEX WILDLIFE TRUST
DES Regular commitment appreciated, anything from 1day/fortnight to 4days per week between March & July. Also opportunity to help with outreach visits, events season & playscheme. Parties of school children visit both centres, during the day each school is divided into groups for different activities around the nature reserves based around curriculum needs. You will be trained to assist & if you wish to lead school groups with these environmental activities. BUT Must enjoy working with children, able to communicate with all ages, but mainly primary age group. Enthusiasm & sense of humour, enjoy working as part of team, some knowledge of or interest in wildlife (you don't have to be an expert!), some degree of physical fitness & enjoy working out of doors. Must be reliable & dependable. Reference checks required. ASK Anna-Marie Kyriacou, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill, Henfield BH5 9SD or anna-mariekyriacou@sussexwt.org.uk or call: 01273 497562

England – South West

REF VOL-DIRECT-OK-5 JOB FULL TIME VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
BE4 June 05 FOR YOUNG VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE
PAY £45 / week living allowance & up to £750 completion award + travel LOC CORNWALL
DES Are you interested in taking a Gap year? You might be disillusioned with your course & considering dropping out? YVC is a DfES pilot project aimed at encouraging young people to vol in Cornwall. We arrange all sorts of placements to individually suit you inc: env conservation & education; animal care & rescue centres; schools & colleges; sport & outdoor activity centres; field studies centres; historical properties; theatre & the arts; youth work. Training inc. If you are already volunteering full time, you may be eligible for the scheme. BUT Aged 18-19 years (up to 21 if disabled or have learning needs) & in receipt OR eligible for Education Maintenance Allowance / JSA / Income Support. Able to give 30 hours per week for up to 9 months. ASK 01872 222151 or 07968 706101 yvc@ccfv.co.uk
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 FOR BTCV DORSET
BE4 21/3/05 LOC WAREHAM
Buddens Farm is a 95 acre site with habitats such as wet meadow woodland & heathland.
JOB: PAY: DES/BUT:
Buddens Farm Volunteer Officer 0 Assist in management of the site, take lead in education scheme & scout badge work weekends & work with vol gps.
Practical Conservation Volunteer Officer 0 Opportunity to gain conservation skills in a lovely setting. Assist with vol program, lead task days, liase with land owners & supervise vols. Both: No prior experience is necessary as all training will be given, incl MiDAS, First Aid at work & an opportuntiy to attend BTCV Institute courses. ASK
Kirsty Bourton, Buddens Farm, Puddletown Road, Hyde, nr Wareham BH20 7NU 01929 472226 K.Bourton@btcv.org.uk
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB VOLUNTARY OFFICER
BE4 21/3/05 LOC YEOVIL
PAY 0 FOR BTCV SOMERSET
DES Help lead the midweek programme. Responsibilities will incl: driving the minibus, leading conservation projects, planning programmes of work, doing risk assessments & site surveys, maintaining tools, helping to promote BTCV & liasing with land owners. Training will be provided to enable the officer to carry out tasks as well as develop their own skills. BUT Flexible, good communications, background in conservation & people skills. Commitment of 6 mths minimum is needed. Must have full, clean UK driving licence & have held for 2+ years' & be over 21 years old. ASK CV & letter: Paul Sherriff, BTCV, Unit 4, Brympton Way, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2HP 01935 415255
REF VOL-DIRECT-21/3 JOB RESIDENTIAL PLYMBRIDGE PEREGRINE VOLUNTEER WARDEN
BE4 21/3/05 LOC PLYMBRIDGE WOODS, PLYMOUTH
PAY 0 FOR THE NATIONAL TRUST
DES March to July 2005 approx. Assist the Warden in organising the National Trust / Plymbridge Peregrine Project. You will welcome visitors to the viewing platform & show & inform them about peregrines & other wildlife in the area. Help to manage a team of over 50 vols & promote the project. Help with the 24 hr nest protection watch, which will involve nights & help with school visits. A fantastic opportunity to gain vol management & people skills. Help with the work of National Trust & RSPB. Free accom within walking distance of site. BUT Good knowledge of birds, especially peregrines, outgoing personality with lots of enthusiasm, tact & diplomacy. Previous quad bike training desirable but not essential. ASK Gus Fergusson gus.fergusson@nationaltrust.org.uk 01626 834750

A Volunteer's Perspective: A year out in Lake Vyrnwy - Klare Sanderson
To stand on the dam and look over the lake, which is surrounded by heather moors, oak woodlands and conifer plantations, set against the backdrop of the Berwyn Mountains is really very picturesque and I certainly never got tired of the view during my 9-month stay. Consequently, I felt very fortunate to become a long-term volunteer at Lake Vyrnwy reserve, which was part of my HND in Countryside Conservation.
My placement started in November and I became involved with various projects, including drying seed for the heather restoration project, as well as cutting conifers down from the moors.
The moorland is an important part of the reserve and is part of the Berwyn Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), due to it being such valuable habitat for moorland birds like the hen harrier in upland Wales. Some of the heather has been lost due to intensive farming methods and the restoration project is trying to rectify the situation.
In my first few months, I was also sent on numerous training courses including 4x4 vehicles, ATV and chain saw. These courses as well being lots of fun necessarily prepared me for confidently using the various machines at the reserve.
Winter work
After Christmas, I was responsible for cleaning and repairing over 300 nest boxes ready for the spring. These were hopefully to be used by the breeding migrants like pied flycatchers and redstarts as well as other resident birds.
One major benefit has been picking up information from an excellent team with such a great knowledge of natural history
By the end of March, we had opened two new trails and planted over 600 trees as part of the hedgerow restoration programme. Other winter jobs were fencing, hedge-laying and hide maintenance.
Spring surveys
From April onwards I began field vole, crow and fox surveys. These were a real treat for me as it meant I spent a lot of the time up on the moors with the stunning views of the Berwyns and Snowdonia. It involved lots of walking through heather and bilberry as well as getting to see meadow pipits, short-eared owls and hen harriers!
Throughout spring, I helped the wardens with numerous bird surveys including black grouse and golden plovers and then in the summer helping the warden with nesting hen harriers.
Down on the farm
I also helped on the RSPB organic farm assisting with lambing and helping the shepherds on busy days. It was a rewarding experience and one heightened by the fact that it gave me another perspective on the practical management of the reserve.
Building skills
The placement has been extremely worthwhile because of the wide variety of experience I have gained. I have worked with a team and individually and been given my own projects to do which has been rewarding. As well as carrying out practical work, I have written reports and been introduced to various software systems for recording survey results. The surveys have also helped enormously with my bird and plant identification skills.
The other major benefit has been picking up information from an excellent team with such a great knowledge of natural history. My time at Lake Vyrnwy has also been thoroughly enjoyable and I would certainly highly recommend the reserve to anyone wanting to gain practical experience or volunteer with the RSPB. I am really looking forward to my final year and seeing how the placement will benefit my studies.
For information about similar placements please email: volunteers@rspb.org.uk or call: 01767 692341

PLEASE REMEMBER to DOUBLE CHECK the BE4 (closing date) of the vacancies. And -

Contact ONLY the number or address given – or you may annoy the Personnel Officer who will decide your future…

This Special Edition was published 21/2/05.

If you don't normally read CJS Weekly then this bit is VERY important!

KEY NB:

REF CJS reference no. JOB Title

BE4 'Before' deadline for applications. IV = Interview date. LOC Location

PAY £ range - usually per annum (but check starting point) FOR Employer

DES Description of Job BUT But they want ... ASK Ask for Details /Application Form from ...

BUT: Please check the BUT section to ensure that you have all of the required qualifications / experience before you apply.

ASK: Contact ONLY the number or address given – or you may annoy the Personnel Officer who will decide your future…

Some of our abbreviations: -

Asst = assist/ant c = circa computerate = computer literate cside = countryside

Direct = sent direct to CJS env = environment equiv = equivalent

esp = especially rel = relevant org = organisation incl = include

info = information IV = interview pref = preferably arb = arboriculture

SAE = stamped self-addressed envelope hort = horticulture cert = certificate

temp = temporary vol = volunteer wb = week beginning 2+years' = 2 or more years

? = no info/unclear [yes] = yes that is what it says

Details believed correct but given without prejudice.