Assistant Ranger Apprentice – Level 2
Fixed-term full-time (37.5 hours per week) apprenticeship lasting 18 months, starting September 2026. Location: Woolacombe, North Devon Coast & Countryside Office, Baggy Point, Croyde, EX33 1PA.
Summary
Come and join us on a National Trust apprenticeship where we support and develop you to play an integral part in tackling climate change, protecting historic sites and helping people and nature thrive. You don’t need experience for this role, just enthusiasm and a desire to learn.
As an Assistant Ranger apprentice, you will work as a member of the ranger team, helping deliver conservation and climate change strategies, conserving the environment that makes the countryside distinctive and special and taking care of our protected landscapes.
On successful completion you will have a Countryside Worker Level 2 apprenticeship, taking your first steps toward a future career in ranger work.
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. The beach is one of the most visited in Britain, providing unique opportunities and challenges. Your role will focus on practical habitat conservation and public access works, including wildflower meadow creation, scrub clearance, tree planting, footpath maintenance, and fence & gate repair and installation.
You will gain experience in leading volunteer groups, supporting tenant farmers with livestock, working on species reintroduction projects, delivering wildlife surveys, and assisting with the delivery of environmental engagement activities to the public and school groups.
You’ll be working outdoors in all weathers as part of the ranger teams, supporting our strategy to restore a healthy, beautiful and natural environment. Your role will protect and improve the health and wildlife richness of our countryside, preserving the benefits it provides to visitors.
What you'll be doing
Working alongside your mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, you will develop the skills and knowledge relevant to the Countryside Worker Level 2 standard. Your training will be delivered through a combination of mandatory weeklong college blocks, online learning, and occasional visits to other National Trust locations.
You will attend regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression.
Who we're looking for
Eligibility criteria
* 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.)
* Aged 16 or over and have completed Year 11
* Not in full‑time education
* 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
* Not currently on any other training or education programme (e.g. another apprenticeship or a degree)
* Able to travel to the work location
* If 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.
Desired qualities
* Ready to start your apprenticeship – no experience needed, just enthusiasm
* Positive, curious and up for learning – motivated, open‑minded and keen to grow
* Confident to speak and happy to listen – you help people feel heard and included
* A great team player – flexible, supportive and comfortable adapting when needed
* Able to follow instructions and stay safe – especially when using tools and equipment (we’ll teach you everything you need to know)
* Focused on giving great service – you care about helping others and doing a good job
* Friendly and respectful – especially when working with volunteers and the wider community
Package
* 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
Key dates
Closing date: 22 June 2026
Interview: July 2026
Equal Opportunities Statement
The National Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating a fair and equal society, free from discrimination.
Safeguarding Statement
The National Trust is committed to safe recruitment processes to help the organisation attract and appoint the right staff/volunteer for the role and responsibilities as set out in the vacancy advert. We will not accept applicants who are not suitable to work with children, young people or adults at risk.
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