Each year, we welcome a team of seasonal staff to support our in-house team during this busy period. The 2024 season has been exceptional, with an outstanding group of seasonals who worked diligently across a wide range of tasks, gaining hands-on experience in the core principles of ecology.
This year, our seasonals contributed to bat surveys, great crested newt (GCN) surveys and translocations, Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) duties, water vole surveys, and the analysis of audio and video data from bat statics, infrared cameras, and badger cameras. They also enhanced their skills in GIS mapping, report writing, and preparing survey kits. Their teamwork and initiative improved how we log data and manage surveys, making a significant impact on our operations.
Principal Ecologist Kinzie Clapham praised the 2024 team, saying, “This year’s seasonals have been incredibly responsive and positive to all of the challenges that come with the survey season. They’ve been able to manage their own time and tasks with minimal supervision, going above and beyond in assisting our wider Ecology team. It’s been rewarding to see them not only input into the interesting work we have had this year, but also see the ‘lightbulb’ moment switch where several of them have realised this is the career that they want to pursue, and we as a team, are more than happy to support that!
Our seasonal staff benefit from a comprehensive package that includes company cars, branded PPE, a full health and safety induction, scheduled nights off to maintain work-life balance, paid overtime, and one-to-one and group CPD training sessions. This program provides a real-world introduction to environmental consultancy, helping participants decide if it’s the right path for them.
One of our standout seasonals, Louise, wraps up her time with us this week. She extended her contract to meet project demands, further developing her skills in species identification, practical surveying, bat static analysis, and time management. Louise is particularly proud of relocating 25 animals during on-site ECoW work, including frogs, toads, voles, a shrew, and a mouse. She hopes to return next season, and we wish her every success in her future endeavours.
Reflecting on the season, we are proud of the growth our seasonals have shown both personally and professionally. This year, we are thrilled to have offered permanent Graduate positions to three of our six seasonals, allowing them to build their careers with us. Read more about them here.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our 2024 seasonals for their dedication and contributions. As we begin recruiting for the 2025 season, we encourage anyone interested in gaining valuable ecology experience to reach out to us. Click here to get in touch!
Harry Huddart has joined our Ecology team as a Senior Ecologist!
We’re excited to introduce Toby as the newest member of our contracting team, joining us as Head of contracting.
We are excited to announce that Matthew Roberts has joined our contracting team as an Assistant Contracting Technician. Matthew brings valuable experience from his previous role as an Assistant Ranger.