An interview with Keir

Keir completed a 12 week work experience placement with us this summer as Heath Hands’ first Work Experience Trainee on Hampstead Heath. Keir is 18 years old and volunteered with us as a Wildlife Interpreter on our Wild About Hampstead Heath programme. Keir was the first in what will be a series of placements enabled by generous funding from the Camden Giving Pathways Fund.

During his placement, Keir become a familiar friendly face helping out with supervising volunteer sessions, wildlife monitoring and our day-to-day work behind the scenes. Our Assistant Ranger Jo interviewed Keir two months into his work with us, catching up with the perennially cheery teen to find out how he had been getting on.

You can hear from Keir himself and read the full interview below.

Why did you want to work with Heath Hands, Keir?

“I’ve always been interested in nature; it’s my favourite thing to do. There was also the mindfulness aspect of being able to work outside and take a break from schoolwork, especially during lockdown. I’m happiest when I’m outdoors.”

How did you feel when you were told you’d got the placement?

“Like when Harry Kane scored his first goal for England – it’s a dream come true!”

What sort of things have you been doing with Heath Hands?

“I have mainly been helping to run practical conservation sessions with volunteers, leading litter-picking groups, facilitating community group activities, and helping out with gardening and wildlife monitoring.” What do you enjoy doing most? “The best part is working with nature. I loved going snake monitoring with Jackie (a longtime volunteer), who was so knowledgeable about all of the wildlife we encountered. I also love being able to go into conservation areas that are closed off from the public.

Is there anything you haven’t enjoyed so much?

“I enjoy litter-picking most of the time, but removing some of the unpleasant waste left behind during Covid hasn’t been fun. I also don’t like it when people (the public) are rude, but that is very rare.”

What about the people?

“I’ve really enjoyed the challenges of working with the public, and forming relationships with volunteers and co-workers with different skills and backgrounds. I also like the camaraderie of working in a small team and learning about team dynamics. It’s fun.”

Anything to add?

“Working with Heath Hands has shown me how much work goes into looking after and respecting the Heath’s wildlife and habitats. Heath Hands has shown me what Hampstead Heath conservation is for. There’s nowhere else like it in London.”

Thanks Keir!

Sadly Keir's placement has now come to an end, but he continues to volunteer, and we wish him every success in his future university studies and career!

We will be offering more work experience placements in 2021.