Euan Tomes
Euan Tomes studied BSc (Hons) Forest Management
Euan (24) believes his studies at the Scottish School of Forestry opened up many opportunities for him in terms of career progression. He secured a full-time job shortly after completing his studies in 2022.
Euan said: “Studying at SSF has been a fantastic experience for me and getting to study in an environment like the Highlands is a big part of that. The staff are brilliant, and the atmosphere at the forestry campus is really unique. The combination of practical learning, industry links and the placement year, all result in graduates who are ready for the industry with significant and varied experience. All graduating members of my class have gained full-time employment prior to officially graduating.
“I have gained employment as an assistant woodlands manager for a large private estate. My role encompasses many aspects of forestry including surveying, planning, and work supervision, as well as wildlife conservation and management, combining the knowledge and experience I have gained through studying both at UHI North Highland and SSF. My studies gave me a solid base to continue my professional development, with many doors being opened for me through the close links to industry that SSF has.”
The school’s strong connections with the industry was one of the reasons Euan chose to study at the forestry campus, as well as its location and the fantastic reputation of the course. Euan decided to enrol after he developed an interest in the complex management of wildlife in forests whilst studying Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management at UHI North Highland and working as a trainee deer manager.
Euan said: “I have always had a great interest in the outdoors, particularly in wildlife and habitat management, with both of my parents working in conservation. I felt that studying forestry would be a good fit for me as it is a hugely diverse industry which encompasses many of my interests, coupled with the fact the forestry industry is growing fast and looks set to play a vital role in mitigating the effects of our changing climate. The Forest Management course, though challenging at times, has been incredibly enjoyable and beneficial to me. The most enjoyable aspects of the course are interacting with like-minded students and the brilliant lecturers, and the many opportunities for practical learning on site visits, which are really useful in consolidating the in-class learning. The lecturers are all incredibly knowledgeable and provide support to students whenever needed. The style of teaching is a mix of in-class and site visits, which is perfect for such a practical course.”
The study trips to the Scottish Borders, Southern England and the west coast of Scotland were valuable highlights for Euan in terms of education and social opportunities. Euan, who lives outside Inverness, says he would urge anyone considering studying Forest Management to work hard, take advantage of the many opportunities presented to them, and most importantly, enjoy themselves.