Career boosting conservation collaboration

Duchy College Rosewarne and Penwith Landscape Partnership have come together to provide industry placements for land and wildlife students in Cornwall.

It is an exciting time to be studying or working within the conservation industry with jobs set to increase by 12% in the UK over the next three years*.

In an ever-evolving industry, employers are looking for students who have more to offer than their qualifications,” according to Sarah Anthony, Curriculum Area Manager for Land & Environment at the rural college that is part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG).

“We are really excited to be working in collaboration with Penwith Landscape Partnership to provide industry placements for our second year Level 3 Land & Wildlife students,” she continued.

“This experience will provide an inspirational and diverse insight into the industry they want to work in. This collaboration is a unique aspect of the programme that will equip them for the range of wildlife conservation opportunities available to the students once they graduate.”

Penwith Landscape Partnership is a National Lottery Heritage Fund project, which brings together a wide range of countryside and heritage organisations, including; Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall AONB, Cornwall Council, Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network (CASPN), Farm Cornwall, local estates, parish councils, The National Trust, Save Penwith Moors and Cornwall Archaeological Society.

Julian Branscombe, Programme Manager for the project, said they were “thrilled” to be offering this annual opportunity.

“We can’t wait for them to join the team and get stuck into the variety of projects we have going on,” she continued.

“They will get to work with us on sustainable farming, wildlife, archaeology and access, so we are well placed to give invaluable experience.”

Sarah added that the students will get to spend one day a week working with the team at Penwith Landscape Partnership over the academic year, where they will gain first-hand experience of a variety of projects.

“A huge bonus is they will also gain access to some certificates of competence to improve their employability,” she said.

The students’ first project with the team will be access clearance and archaeological survey work at Caer Bran and Bartinney Downs Cornwall Wildlife Trust Reserve. For updates on what the team are up to follow Duchy College Facebook and Instagram pages @DuchyCollege.
TCCG has a new, highly experienced leadership team in place, which is investing in quality education, facilities and career outcomes for learners.