Sparsholt College Group is delighted to announce that Tom Hilder, an alumnus of Sparsholt Campus and University Centre Sparsholt (UCS), has been named as the winner of the Rising Star award at the inaugural Schöffel Countryside Awards, held in partnership with the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust. 

The Rising Star Award celebrates young individuals who exemplify excellence and leadership in countryside conservation. Tom’s success is a testament to his passion and the strong foundation built during his time at Sparsholt. 

Tom began his journey at Sparsholt studying a Level 3 Extended Diploma Wildlife and Countryside Management, before progressing to complete a BSc (Hons) in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at UCS, graduating in 2020. He now serves as a Senior Nature Based Solutions Officer for the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, where his commitment, expertise, and innovative approach have made a significant impact on habitat restoration and biodiversity across the region. 

Talking on his success, Tom said: “I was pleasantly surprised when I got the phone call from Sparsholt to inform me that I had been nominated for the Rising Star Award. I had kept in touch with Sparsholt Campus & UCS staff since graduating in 2020, even hosting them for some research projects on my sites, but I never thought they would put me forward for such an award. 

I can’t thank the staff at Sparsholt Campus and UCS enough, without their passion, drive and support in the formative days of my conservation career, I would not be where I am today; Working in a job I love and feeling a true sense of satisfaction knowing I am doing my bit for nature recovery in Hampshire.” 

Dave Lock, Senior Curriculum Leader for Land and Wildlife (Game, Countryside and Fisheries) at Sparsholt Campus, stated: “By far the most gratifying part of working with the Countryside team at Sparsholt Campus is welcoming students arriving from school with a passion and an interest in nature conservation. This was very evident with Tom from the outset. With a clear passion for nature conservation and a desire to work in the countryside, it was clear that Tom wanted to absorb and learn as much as possible during his time here at Sparsholt Campus.  

To see that he has progressed to the position that he is in today, working to restore nature in some of the most iconic habitats and landscapes in Hampshire is a credit to his hard work and dedication. There is no greater advert for the work undertaken at the college than to see ex-students carving out successful and rewarding careers for themselves and contributing to the countryside and conservation sector.” 

Over 80 nominations were received, with just 24 finalists selected across six categories. The finalists represented a diverse group of individuals from across the UK, all recognised for their outstanding contributions to conservation. A panel of 28 judges has spent the spring and summer visiting each finalist to see their work first hand. 

The judges commented on Tom’s success, stating “What stands out is how he has taken a series of sites in need of attention and is now successfully managing and recovering the habitats and species found there. Looking at earlier satellite images of the site, and hearing the history from Tom, it is obvious that the diverse range of well-managed habitats and threatened species found there today are the result of Tom’s extensive knowledge, careful planning, and practical skills.

Tom is a fantastic example and role model for future generations of working conservationists – full of passion, knowledge, and potential.”

 

Sparsholt College Group is incredibly proud of Tom’s achievements. Staff who taught and mentored him are confident that he will continue to be a driving force in conservation for years to come. 

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