Blogger: Rachael Murray, Media Officer

For all you budding conservationists out there, the fab news is that we are looking for four people passionate about conservation who can dedicate a year to volunteering on their Eastern England reserves.

The internships begin in early March 2012 and will give volunteers the opportunity to spend two consecutive 6 month periods working at some of our favourite RSPB nature reserves including Old Hall Marshes in Essex, Minsmere on the Suffolk coast and Titchwell Marsh and Strumpshaw in Norfolk.

The residential scheme will offer our enthusiastic interns the chance to work against the stunning backdrop of some of the most nature rich areas in the East.  Interns will be provided with accommodation suitable for their placement in addition to training, mentoring, conservation work experience and networking opportunities.

It is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to move into a career in conservation. But don’t take our word for it, one of our fantastic interns from last year, Paul Stagg, said: “This internship provides an excellent head start and gave me the opportunity to get involved with all aspects of reserve management – from survey work to land management to people engagement. Along the way I always had a supportive team around me, happy to share their knowledge and teach me what they knew.

“There were countless opportunities to meet people already working in the field, gain the benefit of their experience and learn a wealth of skills. The natural world urgently needs passionate, versatile individuals to take on the challenge of protecting it and this is an excellent opportunity to gain the skills and experience you need to do just that".

And you’ll be in great company - we’ve got over 17,000 people currently volunteering with the RSPB for wildlife and conservation, giving over one million hours of their time each year.

So, why not head the January blues off at the pass by jumping into 2012 with a new purpose and volunteering with the RSPB?

The closing date to apply for the internships is 6th January 2012.

To apply for the internships or enquire about further volunteering opportunities at the RSPB, contact Annie Sadler on 01603 697504 or annie.sadler@rspb.org.uk.

We hope to hear from you soon!