National Trust Inspires Level 1 Land-based Students at North Devon College

Level 1 Land-based students at North Devon College recently welcomed the National Trust for an engaging and informative guest talk that brought real-world conservation into the classroom.

The session gave students valuable insight into the wide range of work carried out by the National Trust, from protecting natural habitats to conserving wildlife and landscapes. Students also learned about the variety of career and volunteering opportunities available within the organisation, helping them to see how their studies could lead to future employment in the environmental sector.

The talk directly supported students’ current assignment for LBS18 Aquatic Environments, making the learning experience both relevant and practical. As part of the unit, students are studying aquatic ecosystems through hands-on investigation, including kick sampling (pond dipping). This involves completing a risk assessment, safely collecting samples, and identifying a range of aquatic flora and fauna.

Following their fieldwork, students present their findings and discuss the importance of conservation, biodiversity, and habitat management. Hearing first-hand from the National Trust helped reinforce the real-life significance of these activities and highlighted how scientific monitoring plays a vital role in protecting aquatic environments.

This collaboration not only enhanced student engagement but also strengthened the link between classroom learning and professional practice. North Devon College is proud to work with organisations such as the National Trust to enrich the student experience and inspire the next generation of environmental and land-based professionals.