Year 12 Work Experience
Oxford University Public Engagement with Nature and Climate Work Experience
8th -11th July 2024
OEA is supporting this opportunity for year 12 students to join a group of 12 students to work with public engagement professionals at two of three sites across Oxford University. (Oxford University Botanic Garden, Oxford University Research Woodlands, Wytham Woods and Oxford University Museum of Natural History).
Each site is a venue for people to engage with science and nature in different yet complimentary ways. Their activities provide inspiration and support to explore and respond to the positive and negative impacts of human activity on the environment.
During four days of work experience participants will work with the University public engagement team and each other to develop a special understanding of the role and skills needed work in this field.
Day 1: Botanic Garden or at Wytham Woods
Day 2: Botanic Garden or at Wytham Woods
Day 3: Museum of Natural History
Day 4: Museum of Natural History
About the locations and what you will do
Wytham Woods is a beautiful woodland by Oxford University where researchers investigate different species of plants and animals to understand how they live and the impacts of climate change on them. You will see lots of wildlife, use some of the research methodology, and learn more about how science and science communication is approached at Wytham.
The Botanic Garden is home to more than 600 plant species. Many of the solutions to the challenges of our time rely on plants: climate change, food security, biodiversity loss and human health. You will learn how people at the Botanic Garden raise the awareness of the importance of plants with the widest possible audience.
The Museum of Natural History is a stunning historic building in Oxford city and home to roughly seven million natural history specimens. It hosts thought provoking exhibitions and a lively programme of events. You will be able to explore the collections, study our exhibitions and understand their relevance to peoples’ understanding and enjoyment of nature.
The group will meet on site between 11am and 3pm each day. There will be additional tasks to work on from home at other times.
This is opportunity is for people who:
· Have an interest in nature and climate
· Enjoy working in a team
· Would like to explore creative ways to engage with people
There are 12 places available. Students in Y12 can apply by emailing education@oum.ox.ac.uk by Monday 22ndApril with a short covering letter (not more than 200 words) explaining why they would like to take part.