Overview
We have a great opportunity for an Apprentice Assistant Ranger to join our Parks and Countryside team. This role is full time, on a fixed term basis for the duration of the apprenticeship. We require someone who is available to start immediately.
(Any successful internal candidate will be offered the position as a secondment and, in line with Section 8.1 of the Secondment Policy, must consult with their manager before applying. Search ‘secondment policy’ on the intranet for more information.)
Bracknell Forest Council aims to be stable and well-managed, supporting employees to thrive in a healthy work-life balance.
About You
As an Apprentice Assistant Ranger, you will be passionate about conservation and nature, and keen to develop skills in the sector. You will have an affinity for the outdoors and British wildlife. You value community involvement and understand its importance in the success of long-term environmental projects.
In your role you will have shared responsibility for the maintenance and safety of Heritage Parks sites, together with other works allocated to the team from the wider Parks & Countryside service through the Lead Rangers.
You will study towards the Countryside Ranger Apprenticeship. Your learning will combine classroom-based sessions, one-to-one coaching, and on-the-job learning, lasting approximately 30 months. At the end you will complete an endpoint assessment and gain a Level 4 qualification.
Working with the council and the training provider, you will learn and demonstrate the skills and behaviours required to meet the apprenticeship standard. You will collect a folder of evidence to demonstrate your knowledge and skills over the 30 months. You will be supported by a workplace coach, and at the end of the apprenticeship we will work with you to identify and secure a permanent position where possible.
About The Team
Bracknell Forest Council Parks & Countryside service manages more than 300 hectares of countryside sites, including wildflower meadows, woodlands, play areas and sports pitches. The service aims to manage sites for the benefit of people and wildlife. Two historic parks have been restored with Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund support, with local community involvement central to this success.
Key Responsibilities
* To undertake estate management tasks including maintaining flower beds, cutting grass, planting shrubs, hedge cutting, sweeping leaves, removing litter, maintaining paths and other park infrastructure.
* To undertake regular safety inspections of the parks and address related health and safety matters.
* To encourage community involvement and liaise with volunteers to coordinate their work in the park.
* To comply with all health and safety procedures, particularly regarding machinery and equipment.
* Carry out play area weekly inspections, reporting findings and addressing any issues.
Benefits
* 25 days annual leave increasing to 28 days after 3 years’ continuous service, with the option to buy up to 10 and sell up to 5 days.
* Paid employee volunteering scheme.
* Local government pension scheme, with life insurance cover.
* Recognition of continuous NHS/UKHSA service when calculating certain benefits (terms and conditions apply).
* Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
* Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for health and wellbeing.
* Inclusive and social working environment with staff networks and a sports and social club.
* (pro rata for part time)
Find out more about all our benefits or see the candidate pack.
Other Information
Our values are inclusive, ambitious, and always learning. We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and reasonable adjustments can be provided. For adjustments, contact recruitment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk.
Interview date: 3 October 2025. Interviews will be in person. We reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. AI usage is not permitted during the interview.
For informal discussions or questions about the role, please contact: Alan Wilson, Green Infrastructure Delivery Manager - Parks & Countryside, Tel. 07802 545506.
Bracknell Forest Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
To qualify for apprenticeship funding, you must have been a UK resident for 3 years or more. Applications from candidates resident in the UK for the last 3 years are preferred due to funding regulations. No agencies please.
How to apply: Please apply online via the link provided. Do not submit CVs without a fully completed online application form.
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