PUBLISHED 22 June 2020
Report by Caitlin, Year 10
On Tuesday 17th June, Jack Walker, (Class of 2014) gave a career talk on ecology and zoology.
Jack is a Newt Officer for Public Group Ltd and he studied Biological Sciences (Zoology) BSc at the University of Leicester before completing his MSc in Biodiversity and Conservation at the University of Leeds.
Jack started the talk with an interesting introduction to ecology, zoology and wildlife conservation and discussed how though they overlap they are also very different. He then went on to explain what they all entailed, starting with ecology. Ecology is about the relation of organisms to one another, their physical surroundings and how living things interact and fit together as an ecosystem.
The biggest surprise came next, zoology.
Like many others, I wrongly thought it related to zoo animals and animal husbandry. Jack explained that it is in fact the study of animal behaviour, development, genetics and more.
Next came wildlife conservation and how ecology and zoology are applied to this. Jack provided us with a great insight into the current threats facing wildlife and their habitats. He spoke about biodiversity loss due to pollution, climate change, habitat loss, invasive species and the illegal wildlife trade and why we need to protect our biodiversity.
Jack then spoke about his love for all animals and wildlife and how he had decided what degree courses to complete. He then gave some great advice as to what A Levels we would need to take to get onto the relevant University courses and he also emphasised the need to volunteer along with completing your education. Further on down the line he found this to be a great asset when applying for jobs as volunteering work helps you stand out from the rest on your CV.
There was so much interesting content covered in Jack’s presentation, that I can’t include it all but it was an amazing opportunity for us all to hear about his love of all wildlife, habitats and nature, including an explanation from Jack on what his job as a Newt Officer entails. Jack gave us take away hints and tips on how to succeed in this area and it helped to confirm that my love for all nature and animals really can become an amazing career with lots of hard-work and volunteering. It has really opened my eyes as to what jobs are out there relating to nature, animals and their habitats.
On behalf of everyone who attended, I would like to say a big thank you to both Jack and Mr Maund for an engaging presentation and great opportunity given to us especially during lockdown!