Benn
Communications Trainee
Age - 22
When looking for an alternative to university and working in hospitality, Benn found the perfect fit as a Communications Trainee at The British Ecological Society through the New to Nature programme.
The placement created opportunities for Benn to build confidence and improve her writing skills, setting her up for a future in communications.
Before the traineeship, Benn had tried university and worked part-time in a restaurant, but ultimately felt unfulfilled. Discovering the New to Nature role on social media, Benn saw it as a chance to gain practical experience better suited to her learning style while earning a full-time salary and living more independently.
“In an ideal world, programmes like this would be advertised in schools and colleges as heavily as going to university is – not everyone wants to sit in a classroom for another three to four years. There are loads of people who just want to get real experience in jobs.”
Benn’s role at The British Ecological Society involved writing articles, press releases and website features on environmental research. She also conducted interviews with environmental figures including Helen Roy and Brigitte Baptiste.
By gaining more experience in writing, receiving valuable feedback, and developing her networking skills, Benn gained valuable skills that have already helped her progress in her career. Since completing the programme, Benn has secured a permanent role as a PR & Communications Officer at BAFTA.
“The stability of my role has helped my mental health a lot, as I no longer worry about working enough hours to make ends meet or working super late and having to walk home alone at night.”
New to Nature is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the celebrations to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s Coronation, delivered through a partnership of Groundwork, The King’s Trust, Disability Rights UK, Mission Diverse and the Youth Environmental Service.
