"It Gives Me an Excuse to be a Massive Kid"

Student Fiona Rundle on volunteering at Carymoor

University student Fiona Rundle tells us how she got involved in helping with Carymoor’s educational activities and what she enjoys about volunteering:

Why did you first start volunteering at Carymoor?
I live close by with my family in Evercreech and my dad brought me to Carymoor for a couple of holiday sessions when I was a kid. I started volunteering nearly two years ago because I am interested in the environment and conservation. I think the site is amazing because in just over 20 years Carymoor has converted it from landfill to this incredible conservation area, showing it’s possible for a small charity to make a massive difference.

What do you get involved in?
I am in my second year of studying Geography at The University of Durham, so I help out at Carymoor when I am back in Somerset on break from university. I help out with Carymoor’s school holiday activities like the Go Wild holiday club and family days. I get involved in a whole range of things, from helping the Education team lead activities like mini-beast hunts or shelter-building in the woods, to prepping for the next activity, or making sure things are cleaned up so everything runs smoothly. It’s different every time.

What do you enjoy about volunteering?
It’s nice to be involved with the education of children about really important environmental issues and to feel like I’m doing something to help. One of the best bits is teaching children and adults lots of new skills and seeing them all really enjoying the experience. I learn a lot from it too and it gives me an excuse to be a massive kid.

Is there anything else you gain from volunteering?
I want to work in sustainability and combating climate change, so volunteering should help boost my CV and gives me an insight into the kind of field I want to go in to. Plus the staff at Carymoor are wonderful, so it’s really nice to be part of the team.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering?
Go for it! It's a great opportunity, it can be so flexible, and there are so many different things people can get involved in.

Interested in getting involved at Carymoor? Whether you have a few hours to spare or you’d like to help out every week, there’s a volunteering opportunity to suit your skills and interests. Visit https://carymoor.volunteermakers.org to find out more.