I started working in conservation when I was 37 after responding to an advert for someone with joinery skills. Through this I began working alongside the local authorities, repairing and constructing fences, gates and styles for the countryside surrounding Gateshead. This progressed further into working on footpaths and on countryside conservation as a whole.

A typical day for me starts with picking up my students, I then brief them about the day ahead and what they are going to be doing. We select the necessary tools, load up the van and drive to the site where I split them up into teams and do a demonstration. I then hand it over to the students, check that they are using the tools in the correct way and observe their methods.

Following my initial start in conservation, I have returned to college and completed a teacher training certificate and D32 and D33 assessor qualifications. This allows me to assess as well as teach anyone over the age of 16, and I have also obtained qualifications in Fire Fighting, Health and Safety and First Aid. I am currently running courses for Broxtowe College, delivering an NVQ course in forestry level 1, and short courses in tree felling with hand tools, coppicing and greenwood working and lots more.

It is an extremely fulfilling and energising experience working with people of all ages. Watching them pick up and develop a skill that I have taught them gives me an immense sense of accomplishment and working outdoors, even in bad weather is unbeatable.