Apprentice Stories
Daisy, Apprentice Countryside Officer, Now Reserves Officer
My name is Daisy Cameron and I joined Test Valley Borough Council as an Apprentice Countryside Officer. After completing my apprenticeship, I applied for the role of Reserves Officer in which I was successful. My new role has enabled me to put everything I learnt during my apprenticeship into practice and develop my skills further. As part of my career path, I am hoping to complete a countryside ranger level 4 apprenticeship whilst working at TVBC to take my education to the next level.
I chose to do an apprenticeship because I wasn’t ready to leave my hometown and the idea of university didn’t feel right for me at this stage of my life. I wanted to gain some practical and educational experience in working outdoors which is something I have always had great interest in. For me, whilst I was out on site conducting practical activities, I was able to learn whilst gaining valuable experience instead of just learning about it in a classroom.
I would recommend an apprenticeship to others because it is a great opportunity to gain a qualification whilst in a workplace environment. You can gain valuable experiences and develop interpersonal skills such as productivity, independence, and self-discipline.
My role at Test Valley entails looking after the nature reserves across the borough. I get to learn about and get involved with many practical habitat management techniques such as tree planting and coppicing. I have also been given the opportunity to survey threatened species such as Dormice and Great Crested Newts.
I like working for Test Valley Borough Council because of how friendly and supportive the team are. So far I have had the opportunity to get involved with groups such as volunteers, conservation organisations and local partnership projects. During my time at the Council, I have been able to develop my skills and knowledge in a subject I am passionate about.