A new apprenticeship programme for young people interested in conservation and the environment will launch in the South Downs National Park this September. The programme, run by the National Park Authority, includes seven new roles including four apprentice rangers, two business administration apprentices and a digital marketing apprentice.

Trevor Beattie, chief executive for the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “This is a rare opportunity to gain the experience and qualifications needed for a career in the environmental sector. Get a head start by helping to make a difference here in the South Downs – caring for the landscapes and wildlife, and helping more people to understand and enjoy the National Park.

“Our ranger apprenticeships will be great for someone looking for a career outdoors but don’t underestimate the value of the work and experience you could gain indoors at our head office in the South Downs Centre. Helping to tell the public what we do, making sure that we pay our bills and getting involved in planning future work programmes will all provide a good training background for a career in environmental conservation.”

Applications close on 16 July 2018 and the SDNPA are holding an open day for prospective apprentices at the South Downs Centre in Midhurst on 4 July 2018 – booking is essential.

Book your place at our open day at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/apprentice-open-house-event-tickets-47060036837

Find out more at https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/job/sdnpa-apprenticeships/

More about the roles:

  • Apprentice Rangers (two posts) – this will require attendance at Sparsholt College Winchester for one day per week during term time to undertake the Certificate and Diploma in work-based Environmental Conservation Apprenticeship Level 2, and then placements from one of our four area offices across the park.
  • Apprentice Ranger, Heathlands Reunited (two posts) – these posts are to support our Heathlands Reunited Project Team so as well as working with the SDNPA you will also have some placements with our partners – National Trust/West Sussex Wildlife Trust/Hampshire County Council etc. The placements will be mainly in the Western area of the Park. You will be required to attend Sparsholt College Winchester for one day per week during term time to undertake the Certificate and Diploma in work-based Environmental Conservation Apprenticeship Level 2.
  • Digital Marketer (one post) – this will require attendance at Farnborough College for one day per week during term time to undertake the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Digital Marketing and placement within our Communications and Engagement Team based in Midhurst.
  • Business Administrators (two posts) – this will require attendance at Farnborough College for one day per week during term time to undertake the Business Administration Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship. Your work placements will be based in Midhurst with the support services, HR, facilities, procurement and tourism teams on a rota basis to give you a broad overview of what we do.