Bridgwater College has been working in close partnership with the National Trust for a number of years and Steve Sudworth, Area Ranger for the Quantock and Blackdown Hills has been a valuable asset to the College’s Countryside Management students.

Steve has been an extremely supportive work placement provider, using his expertise and skills, along with his experience to manage a vast array of volunteers. Steve enthusiastically passes on his extensive range of knowledge to students studying the arboriculture, horticulture and countryside management courses.

Steve has shown empathy with all levels of abilities and understanding, taking extra time out of his busy day to encourage students to realise their potential in a working environment in a land based industry.

Unfortunately for the College, but great for Steve, he is embarking on a new career. On behalf of all the staff and students who Steve has worked with over the years, we would like to wish him well.

Student, George Bell from Highbridge is studying the Foundation Degree in Countryside Management at Bridgwater College’s Cannington Centre and is a volunteer at Fyne Court, he said,

“I thoroughly enjoy working with Steve and the team at Fyne Court. I have developed many skills related to the countryside and conservation industry over the last two years. As a National Trust Ranger, Steve has shared his knowledge and passion, and supported me throughout my work experience; good luck and thank you!”

Jacqui Pierce, Work Placement Co-ordinator at Bridgwater College added,

“I have been fortunate enough to work closely with Steve for the past six years within my role at Bridgwater College and would like to thank him and wish him good luck for his new role as Lead Ranger for Godrevy to St Agnes in Cornwall. The National Trust does not currently take on apprentices as they rely heavily on a large volunteer base. Fyne Court has only four work placements available per year and in the time I have been in post Bridgwater College students have always been successful in gaining these positions. This is part of a wider partnership we have the National Trust here in Somerset and in the expansive South West area.”