EAST Devon District Council’s Countryside Team has joined forces with Bicton College to provide work experience placements to Countryside Management students.

This relationship will give the next generation of rangers an insight into habitat and visitor management across all the council’s nature reserves including Knapp Copse, Holyford Woods and the Axe Estuary Wetlands.

The students will gain invaluable skills in conservation, running events, working with volunteers and delivering education sessions.

Councillor Iain Chubb, Environment Portfolio Holder said: “This partnership naturally links two important organisations and highlights East Devon District Council’s commitment to Bicton College and the young people it serves. I am sure with the wealth of experience in the countryside team and the support of college tutors this link will only get stronger.”

Jane Townsend, Deputy Principal at Bicton College said: “We are proud to be developing our relationship with East Devon’s Countryside team. Our initial discussions have created many future activities that we are keen to explore. Bicton College works hard to equip students with the skills to ensure they are readily employable and set up for a successful future career. That wouldn’t be achievable if it wasn’t for the employers like East Devon District Council who are giving practical day-to-day experience to our students, which will help us shape and develop the curriculum we deliver.”

These are sentiments echoed by Leo Henley-Lock, Countryside Lecturer at Bicton College. “Industry links like this enhance our students’ experience and ensure that together the Industry, the College and the student work in harmony to develop the right skills and experiences.” He added, “This is a model we have been working on for some time through our Level 3 Countryside Ranger course and hope to continue to develop.”