Bicton College and Spectrum Housing Group are offering young people the chance to try countryside management skills as a Countryside course taster day on Tuesday, February 17.

Open to all 14-16 year olds as well as Spectrum Housing Group residents the taster day will provide hands-on activities including planting, coppicing and vegetation control as well as managing animal accommodation. Visitors will also have the opportunity to find out more about the Bicton College Countryside course, apprenticeships and career paths in countryside management.

Stephen Deakin, Housing Officer for Spectrum Housing Group explains, “We have a large number of houses in East Devon and wanted to reach out to residents and potential residents with the opportunity to try new skills and discover alternative career paths. We like to work in partnership with other organisations and know that Bicton College has a strong reputation in delivering excellent vocational courses to young people. We are expecting a great day out.”

Student studying Countryside Management courses at Bicton College gain knowledge and practical skills in topics including ecology of woods and forests, improvement of British habitats, using machinery and conservation. On completion of a Diploma course students go on to become rangers, estate workers and country park wardens.

Phil Cribb, Head of Countryside at Bicton College says, “Young people are increasingly aware and concerned about the environment - our courses combine practical skills and theory that give students the knowledge to go on to make a difference to the natural environment in their chosen careers. We welcome students from Year 9 to Year 11 along to the taster day to find out more about the opportunities available to them.”

To book your place on the Taster Day please contact slo@bicton.ac.uk or call 01395 562324.