An Apprenticeship with the National Trust Ranger team.

What it's like to work here:We welcome some 22.5 million visitors, from all ages and backgrounds, every year. We care for historic houses, gardens, mills, forests, castles, miles of coastline, islands, holiday cottages, pubs and inns, whole villages and even a goldmine. We also run a huge retail chain, a multi-million pound food and beverage business and much, much more. And we do all of this so that everyone can enjoy and make the most of the green spaces and beautiful places that England, Wales and Northern Ireland has to offer.

You can find out more from some of our current and previous apprenticeships here: National Trust Jobs :: Apprenticeships

With its rolling Downland and spectacular coastal views, the National Trust South Downs East estate includes some of the most iconic countryside sites in Sussex, from the white cliffs at Birling Gap to the Iron Age hill forts at Ditchling Beacon and Devil’s Dyke, our sites are special places for both people and wildlife.

The Ranger team is based at Saddlescombe Farm, close to Devil’s Dyke near Brighton. You will need to be able travel to and from our office at Saddlescombe Farm.

You’ll be assisting the Ranger team in carrying out practical habitat management work across our Chalk Grassland sites. The work will be varied including Downland and access management; habitat management, dew pond maintenance, stock fencing and gate/stile repairs, wildlife surveys and reporting.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Southeast. It will be challenging and hard work, but there is a great Ranger team to support and develop you.

What you'll be doing:You'll be working with your Trust Line Manager/ Mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship and as part of the wider team and will be working outdoors in all weathers. You’ll attend, and prepare for, monthly review meetings with your Provider Mentor and be accountable for your own progression in relation to the Apprenticeship Standard. You'll be required to complete and upload relevant evidence to the appropriate e-portfolio system to document your progress as well as maintain timesheets for Off-the Job training. You'll be required to complete mandatory e-learning, courses and training provided as well as preparing for exams if applicable.

Who we're looking forWe’re looking for a self-motivated doer who is able to encourage those around them; someone with a curiosity about countryside management and the confidence to connect with visitors, partners and the local community about our sites, our work and our ambitions for land, the outdoors and nature.

The packageThe 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)

• Tax free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts i.e. 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 locations

• Independent financial advice