REW12
May 10, 2024
Funded by Greenwich Hospital , eight Royal Navy personnel arrived at Bicton College on a gloriously sunny Sunday for the first Rural Experience Week of 2024, with the purpose being to improve wellbeing and begin the process of preparing them for possible careers after service.
Monday was spent with Gary the RSPB Ranger at the Venn Ottery Reserve on Environmental Conservation activities including removing fencing from part of the reserve and making hibernation boxes for a Dormouse Survey. The evening was spent with Pete Boorn taking them through the Wheel of Life aimed at helping the group understand the priorities in their lives and think about how to achieve the balance they require.
On Tuesday we stayed in the Park at Bicton, where Chris split them two groups to spend the morning with Matt and Kirsty from Hi Line learning about rope access, and Lee Kimber taught the other group about chainsaw maintenance and use. In the afternoon the groups swapped about to give everyone a chance to experience arboriculture basics.
Ian Parmenter joined us again on the Wednesday, along with his assistant Dan Parker, for another fascinating Blacksmithing session when everyone got the opportunity to make their own toasting fork. A day of focusing on the skills military personnel bring to the workplace and how much they have to offer allowed for wide-ranging conversation and a growing realisation of the abilities they have.
Thursday took the group to Dartmoor to learn about the work of the Rangers and the role payed by the Duchy of Cornwall. A fascinating day and many thanks to Richard Drysdale, Ellie Briens and Mark Butler of Dartmoor National Park and Jon of Shallowford Farm for their generous time. On return the college, the evening was spent with Jamie Ranson who talked with the group about his transition from the military to self employed tree surgeon. Jamie is a wonderful and generous supporter of the rural weeks and we deeply appreciate the time he gives.
On Friday morning Heather and Jamie joined the group to talk about how HighGround can continue to support them. After Chris and Pete drew the course to a close it was time for journeys home.
As always we offer our thanks to Bicton for looking after us so well, and to our hosts and presenters who give their time and knowledge so freely.
#outdoorsisbetter
Pictures from the week can be seen here
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