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Meet Louis at Orkney Museum

Louis Craigie is a seventeen year old student who is currently undertaking the Personal Programme at the Orkney College. His placement at the Orkney Museum forms a part of the programme and he works at the museum every Thursday morning during term time. With an interest in local history and wildlife he was keen to take up a placement in The Orkney Museum.
Louis at Orkney Museum

To make the most of his interests, Louis has been using the museums resources to research the wildlife and botany which are native to the isles. As well as facts and figures he has included local folklore tales and superstitions which relate to the subject. This information is being put into a file which will compliment our section on Local Resources within our Introductory Room. This will enable visitors to the museum to find out about our wildlife and where they can go to see puffins, razorbills and other birds as well as seals, whales and other animals. They will also get an opportunity to learn about plants in Orkney and their medicinal properties.

In addition to natural history Louis is interested in the war, so one blustery, rainy day staff and student set off to visit some of the war sites on the Orkney mainland. He says “I learned a lot from going out and about and visiting the sites at Ness and Twatt. It was really interesting to hear about the Italian Chapel, the Barriers and other wartime defences.”

“I’ve learnt a lot during my time here. I’ve gained in confidence and have got better at working on my own. It’s been different coming into a work environment and producing something that will be on display to the public.”

Louis's tutor said  "Louis's placement at the Orkney Museum has given him valuable experience in researching topics and project development. He has used his skills to present information within a real work environment. As a result Louis has gained confidence and developed vocational skills that will help achieve future goals".

When Louis finishes his course this summer he hopes to enrol in the R… for Work programme. After completing this course he will be looking for a job in gardening – another one of his interests!


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