UHI Marine and Coastal Tourism Work Placement at HWDT HQ
HWDT were lucky enough to host two highly enthusiastic students on work placements as part of their university degrees. The University of the Highlands and Islands run a unique degree in Marine and Coastal Tourism, based out of their West Highland College in Fort William. This exciting course is the first of its kind in the UK, focusing on the many uses of the marine resource, and how tourism interacts with these.
Work placement students helped deliver a headland watch at Glengorm
The students, Brodie and Lyndsay, helped deliver our community engagement and citizen science programmes. They carried out a variety of tasks, from leading activities for members of the public and carrying out land based cetacean surveys, to helping prepare Silurian for the season.
Brodie greets visitors to Silurian for the Tobermory Open Boat
Brodie was based in our Discovery Centre, in Tobermory, and was instrumental in the preparation and delivery of our British Science Week programme of events, activities and talks.
“The whole placement was great fun and interesting – I got the opportunity to use skills here I do not often use elsewhere – such as designing and project management. Throughout my time here, I have discovered these are skills I enjoy using and perhaps something I could look to use in the future.”
Lyndsay was placed with our Hebridean Whale Trail team, and quickly became invaluable; developing resources, carrying out headland watches and scoping out potential Whale Trail sites.
“I’ve had the most wonderful time with HWDT and I am sad to leave. HWDT has been amazing and filled my nine days with lots of interesting and exciting tasks. I felt like a part of the team from day one and have made long lasting friendships. I really felt like what I was doing could make a difference and I am really looking forward to using the Hebridean Whale Trail once it is up and running.”
HWDT were delighted to host the placements, and provide the students with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience for their promising future careers in marine conservation and tourism.
A huge thank you to both students for all your enthusiasm and hard work!