Assistant ranger apprentice - level 2

Assistant Ranger Apprentice - Level 2 24,785 pa

Fixed Term full time (37.5 hrs per week until 20/03/28)

Location: Winscombe

Ref: IRC177009

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 a member of the ranger team, helping deliver our conservation and climate change strategies. You will work to conserve the environment that makes the countryside distinctive and special, and help take care of our protected landscapes. On successful completion you will have a Countryside Worker Level 2 Apprenticeship, taking your first steps towards a future career in rangering.

What it's like to work here

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. Across Mid Somerset, the Mendip Hills, Quantock Hills and Somerset Coast & Levels, you’ll work across varied landscapes rich in wildlife, heritage and access. From the limestone grasslands, woodlands and limestone landscapes of Cheddar Gorge and Crook Peak, to the coastal headlands of Brean Down and Sand Point, the Polden Ridge grasslands, and the iconic Glastonbury Tor, each site presents unique opportunities. The heathland and oak woodlands of the Quantocks add further diversity, with work focusing on habitat management, species recovery, access and protecting significant historic features.

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.

We’re looking for

• 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.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Ready to start your apprenticeship – no experience needed, just bring your 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.
• 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.

The 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.

Location

Mid Somerset, Barton Rocks, Winscombe, BS25 1DU

Documents

• Apprentice - Level 2.pdf
• Ranger Apprentice Level 2 Advert England.docx

Requirements

Compliance. Eligibility to Work in the UK.

Additional Information

Closing Date: 22 June 2026

For any queries relating to this apprenticeship, please contact apprenticeships@nationaltrust.org.uk

This role will start in September 2026 and runs for 18 months.

Equal Opportunities Statement

The National Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating a fair and equal society, free from discrimination. You can read more about our commitment to inclusion and diversity here.

Safeguarding Statement

The National Trust is committed to a safe recruitment process 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. If you have any questions about your suitability for this vacancy, please contact the people service centre.