Work experience at Hampstead Heath
Having spent some time working as a freelance gardener, my intention coming into the Heath Hands work experience programme was to get more of a sense of what conservation work looks like in practice. I had been considering a potential postgraduate course in ecology but was looking to gain some practical experience in the field first. Hampstead Heath is one of my favourite greenspaces in London, so I jumped at the opportunity to work here.
Topiary at Keats House Garden
My work experience has been a rich and grounding introduction to the conservation sector in an urban environment and I’ve appreciated learning about the complexities of managing a green space to meet the needs of both people and wildlife. The Heath Hands team have been lovely, very patient, always willing to show me the ropes and generous in sharing their expertise. I now have a much clearer sense of what working in the conservation sector entails. The workspace is very well equipped, and the atmosphere is relaxed, while also focused and organised. The working hours are very flexible which suited my other freelancing. I’ve found that the work culture at Heath Hands allows for everyone to contribute creatively to the schedule, bringing their different attributes in to the charity’s activity programme.
Some of my highlights include the wildlife I’ve gotten close to while I’ve been out on site, such as several grass snakes, southern hawker dragonflies, a great tit nest in our staff yard, a mandarin duck couple, a kestrel and more. It’s just a treat to be immersed in such a semi-wild environment in the city.
Southern Hawker I spotted while working
I’ve also enjoyed supporting some of our gardening volunteers, many of whom have years of horticultural experience – I have picked up several good gardening tips and tricks. During my placement, I’ve been involved in lots of different work such as at Keats House, helping with corporate groups, schools, local community groups and two major public events on the Heath. I particularly enjoyed attending a guided bug walk, where my inner 10-year-old came to life, lifting logs or rustling trees and sifting through all the life crawling around there with a lovely group of locals.
Day one - installing signage at Whitestone Garden
It has been a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively, to get to spend time in such a biodiverse, richly wild greenspace (and in some of the more formal gardens, including Keats House) with lovely people that are knowledgeable about what they do. My time at Heath Hands will be a big factor in shaping my decision about whether I chose to go further into the field. It has offered me exactly what I was looking for - practical experience of ecological work in the city. I feel lucky to have found that in a healthy, welcoming workspace.
Many thanks to the whole team for having me.
Yago Soto
