I grew up really close to the mountains and used to hike with my family at weekends. I always knew I wanted to work outdoors protecting the environment. In 2017, while volunteering with the rangers in the Lake District I worked with the Woodland Area Ranger who taught me about trees. His passion for his subject was infectious and I decided to be an arborist.
You need strength for this job, but that’s something you can build. I’m small in height and that has its advantages. When I’m up in a tree the views are great.
At RHS Garden Bridgewater we’re planting mature trees. I’m used to planting saplings so it’s amazing to see trees that weigh a few tonnes being planted. It’s exciting being part of a new RHS Garden. I love working outdoors and doing different jobs every day. I feel welcome in this team where we share our passion for trees and I’m helped to gain the skills and knowledge that I need.
This is a job where I can be surrounded by trees and learn as much as possible about them, and then carry out specific tasks to protect them. I chose this path because I love trees and I want to protect them. As Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”.
When my RHS Apprenticeship finishes, I’d like to work in an arboretum.
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