Jane Frostick, Partnership Manager  I came to work in Countryside Management via a circuitous route, taking in the world of finance, IT and project support. Having finally been put on the straight and narrow by Plumpton College in 2005, I did a spell on a grazing project with the South Downs Joint Committee, followed by a stretch with the National Trust as an Education Warden. I joined the Kent High Weald Partnership in 2007, and have been taking care of their nature reserves ever since. When not out and about in the green spaces of Tunbridge Wells, I like to while away the hours trying to be musical.

Nick Robinson, Countryside Officer - Volunteering  Hi, I’m Nick, I joined the Project in April 2005 and I work part-time looking after the midweek volunteer project. It’s an interesting and varied post, and gives me the opportunity to get out of the office, helping a wide range of people to get involved with hands-on practical conservation. Before I joined the project, I spent ten years at Yalding Organic Gardens, from student to Head Gardener. I am still a keen organic gardener, giving talks on the subject to local groups, and working on the allotment with my family.

Ian Johnstone, Countryside Officer - Conservation  After spending 17 years in the pensions industry I decided it was about time I got myself a proper job! I studied at Plumpton College for an HND in Countryside Management and arrived here in November 2007.I get involved in some great projects in the wonderful High Weald countryside and wondered why it took me so long to change career!

Saul Fajerman, Countryside Officer - Education  Originally  from London I spent the last 7 years as a countryside ranger in Durham specialising in environmental education. I am delighted to have this opportunity to deliver educational projects on a full time basis. I have found the south east very welcoming and I have yet to be short of apples.

 

Vikki Osborne, KHWP Support Officer· I joined the Partnership for a 6 month placement and never left!  I have always enjoyed being outside probably due to a family who have always had land based jobs. I spent time at Hadlow studying Countryside management and decided its time to put my education into action!

Sarah Tree, Partnership Officer - Assistant  After a career in customer service and administration I decided it was time for a change... I studied Environmental Science for 4 years and was then lucky enough to gain a position as a Summer Ranger in the Medway Towns Country Parks. I then spent a year as a Volunteer Trainee Warden with Kent Wildlife Trust, after which they offered me a job as an Assistant Warden with 2 nature reserves to look after! I am now fortunate enough to be able to combine all of my skills at KHWP assisting the Partnership Officers. The job is incredibly varied within an idyllic setting…I couldn’t be happier!

Rebekah Bibby, Countryside Officer - (on Maternity Leave)  I started as a volunteer with the project in 2001 and have since worked through being the Community Officer and then the Education officer. I believe that children learn best in the outdoors and encourage schools to use their grounds or the wider countryside as somewhere inspiring to teach and learn.I grew up on a fruit farm in the Low Weald and worked in the horticulture industry for a few years.I spent a few years travelling and doing voluntary work in the environment sector as I decided to try and get work which was more linked to my degree in Environmental Biology.I have learnt a huge amount about the secrets of the High Weald landscape and am constantly telling people about drove roads and the amazing High Weald iron industry.

Oscar - The big dog!  I am currently on sabbatical, studying 'Dog Behaviour in the Office Environment'. My training is progressing well, and I hope to be back in 'work' soon... Interests include; eating everything , running, jumping on people, and chewing anything within reach!