Gemma
Chambers

Why did you choose to study your course at Brackenhurst?

I have always been interested in working outdoors but after I finished school in 2012 I had no idea what area to go into, so I ended up working in admin. But I always thought that I would like to work outdoors doing something meaningful. So, when I was 28 I decided to take the plunge to go back to college to try and pursue a career working outdoors within conservation, which is when I saw the course at Brackenhurst.

Tell us more about your course. What do you enjoy studying the most?

The practical side of the course is my favourite part, getting outside in nature and learning management skills such as hedge-laying and habitat restoration as this is what I’m most interested in.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

The library is brilliant, it’s big enough so you will always get a seat, and there is a great online system which is so helpful when you’re looking for specific books or journals to help with assignments.

What do you think about Brackenhurst Campus? What do you get up to in your spare time?

The Orangery is the main place I go in my spare time, mainly because of my coffee addiction, but it’s also a great place to relax and chat with friends between lectures.

Have you had any support from other departments? How was your experience accessing these/ was the service helpful?

I will always be grateful for the finance team as I was able to get funds through the bursary at NTU which helped me pay for fuel and any equipment I needed.

What is your top tip for someone considering studying at Brackenhurst Campus?

Definitely bring practical clothes and comfy shoes, it’s a big campus so there’s a lot of walking to do between lectures. Also check out the walks around campus, it’s something I wish I had done more as there's a lot to see.

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve?

As part of the course, you need to complete 150 hours work experience each year, so I volunteered at Hartsholme Country Park in Lincoln. I had volunteered with them previously, so I knew what to expect and knew I'd enjoy the work. I was also lucky enough to have a short stint working in Ecology completing surveys for protected species and was able to take part in lambing on the farm, which is something I would highly recommend.

Work experience overall is a great way to try different roles to see which suits you best, without committing to a long-term job, so make sure to pick different things each year.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it?

This course is great if you know you want to work outdoors or want to do something in nature, but you’re unsure exactly what path to take. The course is quite broad and teaches you everything from science and ecology to the practical elements of physically making a difference, therefore giving you all the options.

What are your plans for after the course and how do you feel your course has/ will help you to achieve that goal?

I am looking to go into full time work after college, hopefully within practical conservation for a charity organisation. The course has really helped with my confidence and opened my eyes to the amount of avenues you can go down in this industry.

Anything else you want to say about Brackenhurst?

If the course has taught me anything, it’s to take every opportunity you can get, whether that’s training or volunteering, as it helps you so much in the long run. And just have fun!