Keen to volunteer - want to learn more about conservation

Hey Alan,

Cheers! Forgot to mention that - I'm based in Cambridgeshire.

Good shout, I think I'll chat to some staff about the sort of things that they've studied in the past that lead them to working in the job that they do.

I've been looking at my local colleges / unis to see what they offer in the way of evening classes or adult learning but it seems difficult to find something that'll work with my current schedule.

It all really depends why you're looking at academic qualifications. Biology would probably be the basis for some aspects of conservation, but it's a wide ranging discipline. For example, in a lot of warden type roles you probably need a bit of horticulture, some engineering, stock keeping - all sorts!
If this is a personal project rather than a career plan, I'd get involved as a volunteer first, before thinking about qualifications. That way you'd get a feel for what interests you the most, which will suggest a direction for any academic study. You may also find that opportunities for training come along to you as a volunteer, that may be harder to find as a member of the public. One thing that is certain, the vast majority of people working for organisations like the RSPB started as volunteers

Some equally solid advice, cheers @Whistling Joe. Appreciate it!

Currently scanning the volunteering opps in my area :)

Hi Jack,

As Whistling Joe mentioned, volunteering is a great way to find out more about an area or work and whether it is something you want to do as a career. You can find opportunities to fit around your studies and the amount of time you have available . That could be from home, one day a week on a reserve or one week or more as part of the Residential Scheme where you can learn new skills and gain experience. Have a look at www.rspb.org.uk/residentialvolunteering

Thanks, Rhoda! I'll consider all of this, too. I've already been in contact with my local group to scout things out.