National Nature Reserve Apprentice x 2 (1 x Kent 1 x Gloucestershire)

This is an opportunity to undertake a training placement on a Natural England managed National Nature Reserve (NNR), or a suite of NNRs as specified.

Trainees will also be required to work alongside Natural England colleagues, including land management, landscape and biodiversity, planning and species specialists to gain wider nature conservation experience.

A key aspect of the role will be to support and carry out work on an agreed NNR/suite of NNRs whilst gaining practical work experience.

The opportunity is a stepping stone to your personal career choice within the nature conservation industry.

You must have a keen interest and practical understanding of nature conservation and demonstrate a clear intention to change career and commit to a long term nature conservation career. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work as a team member are essential.

Trainees will work with Natural England’s National Nature Reserve staff and volunteers. The work undertaken will vary from reserve to reserve but trainees will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of practical skills.

There may be the opportunity to work on one of our partner’s sites during the training programme to expand the range of training and learning opportunities.

Trainees will undertake a Work Based Diploma at Level 2 in Environmental Conservation.

Please state clearly your CHOSEN LOCATION on your application

Natural England is the Government’s adviser for the natural environment in England. Our job is to help protect England’s nature and landscapes, for people to enjoy and for the services they provide, both now and in the future.

Our work is a significant component in the delivery of the Government’s aspirations for improving the natural environment in England as described in the Natural Environment White Paper (NEWP) of 2011, and we are the lead delivery body for the Government’s Biodiversity 2020 programme.

We are a national organisation that covers the whole of England, extending 12 nautical miles out to sea (and 200 nautical miles for advice on renewable energy impacts). Around 2,100 people work for us, bringing a range of specialist skills and knowledge in all aspects of the natural environment and the ways in which people engage with it.

Working with government and our partners, we have already achieved a great deal. We have successfully protected many of England’s most valued landscapes, we have secured an extensive series of protected wildlife sites which provides the basis of a coherent ecological network, and there is a reservoir of public goodwill towards the natural environment. We have the expertise to deliver the effective conservation of particular species or habitats.

The NNR team provides ownership, accountability and expertise within Natural England for the management of 143 National Nature Reserves in England, covering some 66,000ha.

The management of Natural England's NNRs is undertaken by experienced and specialist staff who bring together a range of skills and knowledge covering practical land management, specialist field skills, public engagement and volunteer leadership. NNRs provide a fantastic training ground to nurture and develop skills which are essential to the future conservation and understanding of our biodiversity.

Caroline Cavill

caroline.cavill@naturalengland.org.uk

07920191007

Closing date 5th July 2016