Summary
Come and join us on a National Trust apprenticeship where we will support and develop you to play an integral part in our work to tackle climate change, protect historic sites and help people and nature thrive. You don’t need experience for this role, just loads of enthusiasm and a desire to learn.
As an Assistant Ranger apprentice, you’ll be working as a member of the rangering team as they help to deliver our conservation and climate change strategies. You will work to conserve the environment that makes the countryside both distinctive and special and help take care of our protected landscapes.
On successful completion you will have a taking your first steps towards a future career in rangering.
What it's like to work here
Woolacombe is an Atlantic coast property, with dramatic maritime cliffs, sand dunes, ancient woodlands, species-rich grasslands, and more. Set within the North Devon Biosphere and North Devon Coast National Landscape, Woolacombe beach is one of the most visited in Britain, giving unique opportunities and challenges for the team. This role will be largely focussed on practical habitat conservation and public access works, including wildflower meadow creation, scrub clearance, tree planting, footpath maintenance, and repair & installation of fences & gates. You will also gain experience in leading volunteer groups, supporting tenant farmers with livestock, species reintroduction projects, delivering wildlife surveys, and assisting with the delivery of environmental engagement activities to both members of the public and to school groups.You’ll be working outdoors in all weathers as part of our ranger teams, supporting our strategy to restore a healthy, beautiful and natural environment. Your role will be working to protect and improve the health and wildlife richness of our countryside, preserving all the benefits we get from it and helping our visitors to experience and get closer to conservation of our special outdoor places.
What you'll be doing
Working alongside your mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, you will develop the skills & knowledge relevant to the apprenticeship standard Countryside Worker Level 2. .
Your training will be delivered via a combination of mandatory weeklong college blocks and online learning, with all expenses and travel paid. There may also be opportunities to travel to other National Trust locations to expand your learning and experience. You’ll also be able to join other training events and learn from industry colleagues internally and externally. You’ll attend regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression.
Who we're looking for
We would love to hear from you if you meet the following eligibility criteria by the start date of the role:
1. A minimum of 2 GCSEs including English and maths at grade E/2, Functional Skills Level 1 or equivalent.(If you hold an EHCP, Entry Level 3 in English and maths is acceptable.)
2. Aged 16 or over and have completed Year 11
3. Not in full‑time education
4. Have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the contract and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the past three consecutive years
5. Not currently on any other training or education programme (e.g. another apprenticeship or a degree)
6. Able to travel to the work locationIf you are aged 18 or under at the point of enrolment and have not achieved English and maths at grade C/4, you may be enrolled on functional skills level 2 as part of your apprenticeship.
f you have a qualification in the same or a related subject or have lots of relevant work experience this will mean you are not eligible for the apprenticeship.Once you’ve checked you’re eligible, please use your application to tell us how you demonstrate the following Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
7. Ready to start your apprenticeship – no experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm
8. Positive, curious and up for learning – motivated, open‑minded and keen to grow
9. Confident to speak and happy to listen – you help people feel heard and included
10. A great team player – flexible, supportive and comfortable adapting when needed
11. Able to follow instructions and stay safe – especially when using tools and equipment (we’ll teach you everything you need to know)
12. Focused on giving great service – you care about helping others and doing a good job
13. Friendly and respectful – especially when working with volunteers and the wider community
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
•Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
•Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
•Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
•Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
•Flexible working whenever possible
•Employee assistance programme
•Free parking at most Trust places