Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

My week with Westonbirt

Posted: May 29, 2018 at 12:19 pm Author: Buddy (college student)

I am writing this blog to talk about my experience at Westonbirt and how working here at the national arboretum has developed my understanding of how the Arboretum is managed. As part of my work experience I have met the teams and managers of the arboretum and created friendships and team building skills along the way. All of the people I have worked with are amazing at what they do and provide you with loads of information in order for you to get the best experience possible.

Working with the public

One of the highlights was working with Hannah, one of Westonbirt’s lovely learning team, to help children create pine cone crafts within the learning centre. This helped me to interact with the public but I also helped people with any needs and shared with them.

Working with the tree team

As the week was going by I had learnt so much and have been intrigued by so many roles which have been exciting and helped me to discover skills I did not know I had. My other highlights of the week would have to be working with the Tree Team and propagation.

These roles have given me a wide view of what I could see myself doing in the future. In propagation, I have learnt the ways in which Westonbirt grows plants and records the many trees that come into the Arboretum. The tree team have taught me how they manage the trees and what needs to be done through the year to keep everything intact and heathy for the people who come and visit and for the Arboretum itself.

The Tree team volunteers have equipped me with knowledge of how I can use the tools and equipment to safely and neatly do the work that is needed for the specific work we have done.

Overall, this week has been one of the most exciting experiences I have been on and can’t wait and see what my next journey will be within the Arboretum and how I and many others can help to bring more life into the world.