Learning from Life

As part of the Learning from Life module at the University of Dundee, I had the opportunity to undertake a six-week volunteering placement at Montrose Basin Visitor Centre. This module is designed to broaden students’ knowledge while offering valuable life and work experience.

Firstly, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers and members of the team for their generosity, support, and warm welcome. Without everyone’s guidance and shared knowledge, I wouldn’t have had such a rewarding and educational experience.

Before starting the placement, my knowledge of birds and nature was quite limited. My aim was to deepen my understanding and gain insight into the natural world, with the hope of sharing this learning with young people in future classrooms.

My Highlights

At first, I felt apprehensive about starting my journey here, as I didn’t know much about the Basin, birds, or local wildlife. However, that feeling quickly disappeared thanks to the incredibly inclusive and supportive environment at the centre. From the beginning, I was made to feel part of the team. Everyone I met was passionate about inspiring others to engage with wildlife, regardless of prior knowledge or experience.

Over the course of my placement, I had the pleasure of meeting many of the volunteers and staff at the centre, all of whom took time to chat, build relationships, and share their knowledge with me. Their enthusiasm helped me grow in confidence and equipped me with the information I needed to pass on to others.

I learned far more than I had anticipated during my time at Montrose Basin. One of the highlights of my placement was taking part in various projects—most notably, the annual Easter Trail, which I led. Although it was a little stressful at times, it was an excellent opportunity to combine my existing skills from working in schools with my newfound knowledge of birds and wildlife. The project was a great success, with over 70 children and young people participating. The feedback from both children and adults was overwhelmingly positive.

Throughout the placement, I witnessed a variety of wonderful sights. One of my favourites was the seals—both grey and common—who are regular visitors at the Basin. I especially enjoyed watching them when they were feeling playful.

One of the volunteers, Lyall, introduced me to the term “lifer”—used when you see a bird for the first time. As a newcomer to birdwatching, I had many lifers during my placement, but one that stood out was the kingfisher. For several weeks, I hoped to catch a glimpse of one, but they never appeared on weekdays when I was there, until finally, I saw one! It turned out to be the last sighting of the kingfisher for the season, which made it even more memorable.

Another standout moment was witnessing an osprey diving for a fish this was my first proper sighting of an osprey, and the first of the season at Montrose Basin. It happened on one of my final days at the centre. Joanna, the Visitor Centre Site Manager, and I had a running joke that “today is going to be an osprey day”—and eventually, it was!

This volunteering experience has opened many doors and provided valuable learning opportunities. Montrose Basin Visitor Centre was incredibly welcoming and encouraging. Everyone there supports learning at all levels and truly wants to help you grow. I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’ve decided to continue volunteering during my free time, not just as a step for university, but because it has become a personal passion.

Once again, I’d like to sincerely thank everyone at the centre for making this such a positive and memorable experience. I would highly encourage anyone interested in wildlife or considering volunteering at Montrose Basin Visitor Centre to get in touch and get involved.

Keri Mitchell

MA2 Education Student

Dundee University