We were delighted to once again sponsor the BTO Young Leaders course. A course designed to help young conservations gain skills , knowledge and support needed for conservation roles.

The course featured a full schedule of lectures and interactive sessions running from 9am to 6:30pm each day. Evenings were dedicated to shared meals and social activities, including campfire games and nature walks, offering participants space to relax and connect. Opportunities for birdwatching, moth trapping and quiet time in nature were also available, and many participants made full use of these. They were joined by RSPB staff, who shared insights into the local reserve and led a bat walk using detectors.

Liliana shared her own journey in the conservation sector and led an inspiring discussion on how young people are making opportunities for themselves

Eco-painting workshop, led by Sophie. Photo: Rachael Griffiths

Dr Anjana Khatwa, Earth Scientist and EDI specialist - Anjana focused on creating inclusive communities within the sector and workplace, and understanding how to be an ethical leader. Her workshop made participants think about their own privilege and how to use it as a leader.

Johnathon Miller-McCall, Communications & Engagement Officer and Freelance Science Communicator - Johnathon took us on his journey in the science communication and conservation sector, exploring the value of internships and the highs and lows of freelance and career independence. Also, how to create your own video content via the CapCut app and putting this into practice.

Prof Russell Wynn, Director at Wild New Forest and Chair of the New Forest Biodiversity Forum - Russell discussed ecological surveys and the resulting management advice, particularly how leaders need to strategically form partnerships and engage with stakeholders to enable effective conservation delivery. Also, led an open forest site visit. Dr Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link. Richard focused on negotiating and influencing, and the challenges which sometimes come with this. His interactive workshops showed participants how they can influence others by using effective storytelling and understanding of people.

Liliana Tarrant-Snedden, BTO Youth Representative (Pembrokeshire & South Glamorgan) - Liliana shared her own journey in the conservation sector and led an inspiring discussion on how young people are making (and can make!) opportunities for themselves.

Samuel Levy, BTO Youth Engagement Officer - Samuel led on an introductory bird ID session and how to run a guided walk, as well as giving insight into how our team runs BTO Youth events. He also led on the moth trap inspections and some (optional) pre-breakfast birding walks.

Please contact BTO Youth Engagement for information on the 2026 Young Leaders course, again held at Cameron’s Cottage.

How to apply for 2026