Volunteering for any charity creates a real sense of fulfilment. With the knowledge that the work you are undertaking is helping the community, you get a great feeling of achievement, no matter how large or small your project is. Having volunteered for Cancer Research UK previously, on a regular basis, I know just how much fun it can be. However despite all this, before starting my project with the RSPB, I was extremely nervous.
I applied to the RSPB through a scheme called the Nuffield Bursary, which is an organisation set up for A level students interested in following a career in the world of sciences. My application was based around veterinary sciences having spent two years working at a competition stables; I have unfortunately picked up a rather expensive interest in studying veterinary medicine at university.
Upon receiving my placement there was an initial degree of excitement. This however was crushed by the terrifying realisation that I had applied to work with a team of conservation and bird experts. To most this sounds great! But my bird identification skills spanned from the ability to spot the difference between the 20 Red Kites outside my bedroom window and a blue tit on the bird feeder. Hence my extreme nervousness. Despite my obvious disability, I got stuck in to my placement and quickly realised how lovely everyone in the office is. There willingness to help me learn and develop my skills has been very much appreciated and has created a really enjoyable working atmosphere, which is great to be a part of.
Carrying out this project has not only been extremely useful to put in my portfolio of work experience placements for university, but more importantly it has opened my eyes to the desperate need for conserving wildlife for the future and the importance of stepping up for nature!
By Henry Bailey, RSPB Midlands Regional Office (henry.bailey@rspb.org.uk)