I’m a mum of two boys currently on maternity leave and I’ve been in retail for the past 16 years. I love being outdoors, and I’m very privileged to have an epic garden full of all creatures great and small. I believe it’s really important to get children outside so they can respect nature and the things that live in it...cue facebook add for the internship. What an absolutely brilliant way to educate myself and others and hopefully ignite that spark that the world we live in is fantastic, let’s explore it and look after it. Here at Lackford its clear you’re never too young to learn, as the youngest recruits to explore the great outdoors are the wild babies group – of whom I’m very much looking forward to working with.

So what have I done so far... our journey started with the official meet and greets at Brooke House SWT head office. I’ve been to Foxborrow Farm for a staff meeting and my level two forest school training. We spent four days in the woods learning some absolutely awesome skills, from making fires, whittling wood, plant identification & outdoor cooking. I’ve been to Redgrave & Lopham Fen on a training day. Then back here at Lackford I’ve lead my first beaver group in a pond dipping session with the help of my trustee steed Roger – one of the many amazing volunteers here at the Lakes.

Then to round off my first month I’ve planned and led the weekend wildlife group at Lackford's spring discovery day. Even though the weather was not kind to us the kids had a great time and what’s more I was blown away with their enthusiasm and knowledge, which just goes to show we can all learn from each other no matter how young or old.

I so far, have had so much fun! It’s been fabulous popping into the hides and chatting to the visitors many of whom have travelled quite far to see the beloved kingfishers (Kings Lynn, Derbyshire, Chelmsford – I’m yet to find a local). All of the staff and volunteers have a wealth of knowledge and are all equally amazing at what they do and make you feel right at home. I feel truly privileged to be given this opportunity and I’m very much looking forward to the next few months.