Published : Fri 3rd Dec
Chloe is training to be an Assistant Ranger on the level 2 Countryside Worker apprenticeship working up in the Lake District. This is allowing her to pursue a career working in the outdoors, which is what she realised she wanted to do.
Why did you choose that specific apprenticeship?
I really enjoy walking and being outside and I realised that I didn’t want an office job at the moment. Therefore, I did some research and found that a career as a ranger was something I was interested it. I looked around and saw that I would need a qualification of countryside management or conservation and I didn’t have that. This apprenticeship will provide me with that qualification but also it’s a paid opportunity, and that helped financially also.
Was there any decision between the apprenticeship route and any other route?
I graduated from university in summer 2021 with a BA English degree. Yet, I didn’t have any experience or qualifications in countryside management, so I thought that the apprenticeship was the best path for me.
What has been your proudest achievement on your apprenticeship to date?
I’ve only been here for a couple of months, but I’d definitely say that my proudest achievement so far was leading a small group of volunteers and rangers to make 6ft by 6ft tree cages. I could feel my confidence grow as I lead and taught volunteers how to create the cages, and the end result led to a tree being planted!
How do you see your apprenticeship helping you in your career progression?
By completing this apprenticeship, I will have gained a level 2 qualification, and this will help me apply to jobs within the National Trust, or outside of it, and to apply my knowledge and practices to interview processes and to a future career.
What would your advice be to anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
Think about what you’re aiming to gain from an apprenticeship as opposed to a college course/degree/job. You’re on site and learning every single day and you’re getting paid to do this as well! I’m really glad that I took the step to apply because I’m having a great experience and I’m meeting amazing people who are willing to teach and help you on your journey.
