Features
Lucy branches out into tree surgery
With ambitions to become a tree surgeon, Lucy Turnbull wanted to learn more about the countryside,how it’s currently managed, sustainability, and also how it will be sustained in the future.
I chose the two-year National Diploma in Countryside Management at the Newton Rigg campus as it offered me a course that combined theory in the classroom with the chance to work outdoors on the practical skills I’d need. I get to do everything from setting traps, dry stone walling, making stiles and fencing, to tree planting and hedge laying. Mind you, not all the work is outside. Some involves being indoors, working on projects such as power points and presenting them to the class. This has developed my IT knowledge about different programmes.
The tutors here are great - really friendly and approachable. If you’re having any problems with your work, you just have to ask and they’re always there to help out.” Lucy feels the workload is just about right. “The deadlines allow sufficient time to complete the portfolios to a standard at which I can reflect my level of achievement and show what I’ve learnt from the course, although some areas are more challenging than others, especially the distinction criteria. I enjoyed this challenge though, as I found it motivating and it gave me a real sense of self satisfaction when I met the deadline.”
Lucy has already secured some contracting work on fencing and gates as a result of what she’s learned and is also going to Germany with Grampus Heritage for a five-week work placement where she’ll be looking at the art of wood and how different woodland habitats are sustained. Lucy’s aim now is to go on to university to continue her studies and qualify as a tree surgeon.“And hopefully, once I’ve got enough experience under my belt, I’ll be able to start my own business.”