The University of Roehampton has joined forces with London Wetland Centre (LWC) to provide new opportunities for student work placements and research and project collaborations under their shared commitment to the environment and sustainability. The partnership was launched at an event on Friday, 20 May at LWC in Barnes and will last for five years.
Christopher Stephens, Head of Southlands College and Lisa Woodward, General Manager of Barnes Wetland Centre signing the partnership agreement
The initiative will provide opportunities for student internships and work placements, as well as LWC project opportunities for Roehampton students. Through joint research projects, the collaboration will enhance the local community’s awareness of environmental and sustainability issues and facilitate new learning opportunities in the area.
The University of Roehampton will also play a key role in supporting LWC’s “blue prescription” programme. The programme is an innovative wetland-based health programme designed to enhance people’s connection with nature and improve their physical and mental wellbeing. The University’s health and wellbeing teams will refer students directly to this programme to support them during their studies.
Lisa Woodward, General Manager of Barnes Wetland Centre, said: “Working with the University of Roehampton is a fantastic opportunity for us, both in terms of widening access to our unique centre as well as collaborating on initiatives which align with our shared strategic goals. The University shares our vision towards the environment, sustainability and the aims of the blue prescription programme, which highlights the importance of improving people’s mental and physical wellbeing through nature, regardless of their age, gender or ethnicity. We look forward to working with the University and seeing new faces on our student internship and work placement programmes around the centre.”
Eleanor Merrick, Director of Alumni, Development and Careers at the University of Roehampton, said: “We are excited about this partnership with our neighbours at the LWC. Having this fantastic asset on our doorstep provides many opportunities, not only for our students in terms of placements, but also working collaboratively with LWC on research and sustainability initiatives.
“Placement opportunities will provide students with the key practical and employable skills that they will need when they enter the job market, and will also raise awareness of how they can play a role in promoting a greener society. We look forward to working with LWC on our shared aims around sustainability, the environment and people’s wellbeing.”
To read more about the LWC “blue prescribing project”, click here.