Students of the Year 2023

Bangor University

Tom Chance: Second-year student, BSc Forestry

“Tom has since hit the ground running throwing himself in the full degree with enthusiasm, asking shrewd questions in discussions and demonstrating great critical thinking in his written work. Tom has worked really hard on his degree work and has achieved excellent marks all while also balancing his study alongside long hours working for local businesses.” Dr Ashley Hardaker, University of Bangor.

Picture coming shortly!

University of Cumbria

Ben Wilson: who achieved the highest overall grade for the BSc (Hons) Woodland Ecology and Conservation 

Ben Wilson, centre, with Andrew Leslie, Senior Lecturer, University of Cumbria, left, and Helen Manns, Director of Institute of Science and the Environment, right

Ben has been accepted into a PhD programme to study continuous cover forestry at the University of Stirling.

“Ben has received several job offers into the graduate programmes of forestry organisations, but he has a clear aptitude for research and is inspired to pursue a PhD at the end of his degree…He has the maturity and work ethic to be an outstanding PhD researcher, ” Matthew Robson, Senior Lecturer in Forestry at University of Cumbria.

Coleg Glynllifon, Wales

Tomos Jones: Level 3 Extended Diploma in Forestry & Arboriculture, Best Overall Student and RFS North Wales Division Shield 

Pictured above: Tomos Jones receives his award from RFS North Wales Divisional Chair John Roe. Credit Les Starling.

Tomos was awarded this prize for his hard work, motivation and enthusiasm whilst studying the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Forestry & Arboriculture. He is among the first group to finish this new qualification at the college.

Tomos completed 4 weeks work experience with Gwalch countryside services where he carried out vegetation management and the feedback from the employer was excellent.

Louie Clarke: L3 Forestry and Arb, Best Practical Student

Louie progressed to the Level 3 course after completing the Level 2 course in Countryside and the Environment.

Forest Lecturer Jeff Jones said: “Louie has shown a keen interest in Forestry and Arb. He is motivated, enthusiastic and a great team member.”

David Tindall: Level 2 Countryside and the Environment 

Forest Lecturer Jeff Jones says: ” David has undertaken all practical aspects such as cutting small trees, brashing, tree planting, fencing, dry stone walling etc. with confidence. He has a willingness to learn and do as well as he can. David has also done extremely well in the classroom, achieving a Merit overall grade for the course.”

 Hill Holt Wood in Norton Disney, Lincoln.

Jenson Taylor: Level 1 Horticulture pathway

Jenson Taylor, centre, with Will Russell, Horticulture Ranger, and Jodie Hill, Head of Education at Hill Holt Wood.

Head of Education, Jodie Hill said: “Jenson is an exceptional learner. He is hard working, determined and passionate. Jenson showed great endeavour as he has gained valuable practical skills in Horticulture. He has also become a real role model to his fellow learners due to his great ambition and care.”

A number of RFS Divisions also present student awards. More here.