Case Studies
David Jenkins
Teaching Assistant, Wrexham
"I heard about BTCV's training opportunities at a jobs fair in Wrexham. While I was unemployed I took a full-time Open College Network course over several months, which gave me a qualification in landscaping, gardening and forestry."
"I went all round North Wales getting work experience and having fun. I loved it - in fact, I would go back and do it again tomorrow! The BTCV team were very good, and even helped me with all the paperwork to get a job I like. People don't know what they're missing!"
Sivi Sivanesan
Has a master's degree in applied marine sciences but wanted to strengthen her hand with practical experience.
"I've done two one-day courses. One focused on how to be a better leader and manager of volunteers which I found really good. It dealt with my issues - gave me more confidence in myself, helped me to relate to other people and showed me what it actually entails to take responsibility and take charge. It was really good fun, but it was also worthwhile."
"The groups are so welcoming, and the trainers are very approachable and supportive. They tell you what they expect of you and they ask you what you want to get out of it."
Caroline Walsh
Founder of Amcai (Access to Marine Conservation for All International)
"I have done five ETN courses so far, mostly one-day. I started with an interactive workshop on involving people with disabilities. I was impressed by the quality of both the other people on that course and the people delivering it, one of whom was disabled."
"I would recommend this training to anyone in the industry. These people know what environmentalists are looking for and what our strengths and weaknesses are. They don't talk at you, or over your head, and you feel you've actually been enlightened."
Nicky Beck
Horticulture Apprentice, Glasgow
"I wanted experience of working outdoors, so I joined one of BTCV's midweek teams. They gave me the opportunity to do all kinds of stuff and use tools I'd never used before. But they also taught me to be more confident, just to be myself."
"The work was excellent, even better than I'd expected. I think I'm a better person now because of it - and I got a job. If someone asked me if I'd recommend BTCV, I'd say, Go for it! It would be the best thing anybody could possibly do."