Students Turtle-y Inspired by Greek Turtle Conservation

Barnsley College University Centre students embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime marine conservation adventure working with loggerhead turtles in Greece.

Five Animal Management Foundation degree students visited the picturesque Greek island of Kefalonia to learn about the physiology, habitat, and behaviours of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta).

Accompanying them were two Criminology, Communities and Criminal Justice Foundation degree students who gained insights into conservation laws in place and the future need to protect these endangered sea turtles.

The educational trip was organised by Flooglebinder, the UK’s first B Corporation travel company, and provided students with hands-on experience in a wide range of conservation activities from turtle egg excavations and relocations to monitoring and surveys of the species.

Emma Radcliffe, an Animal Management Foundation degree student, shared her insights and said: “This trip was a real eye-opener, filled with learning opportunities.
“We studied the different types of turtles in Kefalonia and the importance of conservation in Kefalonia and globally, the impacts of tourism and light pollution on marine life and snorkelling to see the effects of plastic waste.”

Hannah Denton, who also studies for the Animal Management Foundation degree, added: “The experience was amazing and has deepened my knowledge and passion for conservation and sustainability.

“As a mature student, I initially doubted how much I would benefit from the trip, but stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to discover new interests I would pursue; I’ll definitely be considering a career in conservation and strongly encourage others to take advantage of such opportunities.”

Barnsley College University Centre offers higher education in a wide range of courses, including Animal Management and Criminology. For more information and to apply for a course starting in September, visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/higher-education. Alternatively, contact the Information Team by emailing info@barnsley.ac.uk or calling 01226 216 123.