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Hounslow Resident Paola Valle Inspires the Next Generation of Green Sector Talent

Green Skills Training Academy's success story highlights booming opportunities in the environmental sector.

In an inspiring full-circle moment, former Green Skills Bootcamp learner Paola Valle has gone from trainee to trainer, leading the next generation of green sector workers in tree planting at Ludlow Park. This milestone marks her transformation journey and highlights the importance of green jobs and skills in the UK’s economy.

Paola, who is in her late forties and originally from Argentina, joined the Green Skills Bootcamp in 2024 after seeking a career change from her previous roles in administration and law. Having faced personal challenges, including bereavement and adjusting to life in the UK, Paola rediscovered her lifelong love of the outdoors. She seized the opportunity to retrain in the environmental sector.

Fast forward to March 2025, Paola is now employed as a Landscape and Environment Operative with leading environmental services company Maydencroft. Even more impressively, she has returned to Ludlow Park—where she completed her work experience—to guide and teach current Green Skills Bootcamp learners Catriona Hutchings and Richard Burt in planting 86 new trees as part of the park’s regeneration.

“Every morning, I wake up excited to go to work. This Bootcamp changed my life. I’ve gone from a previous job as a paralegal to leading new learners, driving trucks, building boardwalks, and planting trees—all while working outdoors, which is where I’m happiest,” said Paola Valle.

The Green Skills Bootcamp, delivered in partnership with Hounslow Council and funded by the Mayor of London, equips participants with hands-on experience, industry certifications, and access to job interviews with employers like Maydencroft.

Martin Platt, Contracts Manager at Maydencroft, praised Paola’s progression:

“It’s fantastic to have Paola on board. Her enthusiasm, skills, and commitment to sharing her knowledge with new learners are invaluable. The Green Skills Bootcamp is essential to our mission of delivering real social value while nurturing the next generation of environmental professionals.”

The work Paola and her team completed at Ludlow Park is part of a wider project transforming green spaces across the London Borough of Hounslow. This includes the installation of new paths, wildflower meadows, boardwalks, and habitat improvements to boost biodiversity. Paola has played a key role in these efforts, from preparing wildflower meadows to planting and staking trees such as Carpinus betulas and Fagus sylvatica.

Nick Wilkinson, Director at Maydencroft, first met Paola during her training and immediately saw her potential: “Paola stood out—not for prior experience, but for her motivation, resilience, and eagerness to learn. Seeing her now lead others while thriving in a once male-dominated industry, is a testament to the transformative power of the Green Skills Training Academy.”

Green sector careers are fast becoming critical as the UK accelerates towards net zero and environmental sustainability. The demand for skilled workers in conservation, landscape management, and sustainable construction continues to grow.

Patrick Venables, National HSEQ Manager at Maydencroft, who trained Paola, said: “Paola shone from the very start. Watching her progress to now guiding others is incredibly rewarding. She’s proof that with the proper support, anyone can transition into a fulfilling green career.”

The Green Skills Training Academy is committed to offering comprehensive, professional, and supportive training for anyone looking to upskill or start a new chapter in the green sector. Whether it’s a love of nature, a desire for meaningful work, or a complete career change, the programme opens doors to real opportunities.

Paola’s story is a powerful reminder: finding your passion, growing your skills, and making an impact is never too late. www.greenskillstraining.co.uk