Reflections on Community Engagement: The Last Thoughts
In the picturesque region of Suffolk Coast, a young intern named Kirsty Wilmot embarked on an enriching journey in outdoor wildlife education. The internship, offered by the Trust in the Spring, provided Kirsty with a unique opportunity to immerse herself in a world of conservation, education, and community engagement.
Kirsty's journey began with a warm welcome from Aldeburgh School, where she presented a copy of "The Lost Words" book. The internship was a whirlwind of activities, including planting a wildflower meadow, organising a hedgehog-themed lantern parade, and celebrating World Ocean's Day on Felixstowe Beach.
During her time with the Trust, Kirsty completed Level 3 Wild Beach Leader training, demonstrating her dedication and commitment to her role. She also delivered workshops at the Folk East Festival and led the Ipswich Wildlife Watch Group for the first time in over five years.
The internship took Kirsty to various locations, from Ipswich to the beautiful coastline, where she engaged in a variety of activities. These ranged from running beach schools and young wardens groups, to family days, outreach events, and a Wild Tots group. Kirsty even led a 6-week series of beach schools for Hollesley Primary School.
Kirsty's outreach work was not without its unusual events. She encountered a random trumpet player on the beach and the arrival of a Danny Boyle Film crew. These unexpected encounters added a unique flavour to her experiences.
As part of her personal growth, Kirsty started a journey to become a Forest School Leader. The Trust is supporting her in organising a pilot for qualifying as a Forest School Leader. She has also enrolled in a Level 3 Forest School Leader course.
Throughout her internship, Kirsty enjoyed the camaraderie of diverse groups of people, including scientists, conservationists, and local communities. She faced challenges like harsh weather conditions and physical demands, but these experiences were transformative.
Reflecting on her journey, Kirsty feels personally valued and included in the Trust's activities. She encourages others to consider this career and seize the opportunity it presents. If you're interested in Kirsty's specific experiences, you may find her blog post or contact her through relevant platforms.
Outdoor wildlife education internships offer numerous benefits. Participants gain hands-on experience, networking opportunities, skill development, and a comprehensive understanding of ecological principles and conservation practices. These experiences can foster personal growth, enhancing teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for nature.
- In her role as an intern, Kirsty Wilmot joined the young wardens group, contributing to the forest school's learning environment, fostering personal growth, and promoting education-and-self-development.
- Participating in various activities such as organizing a hedgehog-themed lantern parade and leading the Ipswich Wildlife Watch Group, Kirsty demonstrates her commitment to personal-growth and learning, furthering her skills in education and community engagement.
- As Kirsty embarks on her journey to become a Forest School Leader, she integrates her love for wildlife with a focus on learning and education, aiming for the holistic development of students and her own personal-growth.
