Details

Are you passionate about nature, wildlife, and the great outdoors? Looking to build a meaningful career where every day makes a difference?

Made possible by support from the South Downs National Park Trust and the National Lottery Heritage Fund through the Downs to the Sea project, we’re excited to open this year’s Apprentice Ranger opportunities in the South Downs National Park – a chance to gain hands-on experience in one of the most stunning landscapes in the country.

As an apprentice ranger, you’ll work alongside our experienced ranger teams who are at the heart of our efforts to care for the landscape and protect wildlife. Working outside in all weathers   getting stuck into practical countryside management, engaging with visitors and volunteers, or conducting ecological surveys, no two days are the same.

This is a unique opportunity to develop practical skills, grow your confidence, and be part of a team making a real impact. You’ll help deliver exciting projects focused on biodiversity, recreation, and conservation while encouraging others to connect with and care for the natural world.

What’s Involved?

The Countryside Worker level 2 course syllabus is delivered by Sparsholt College, through a combination of college attendance in week long blocks and online learning. All college related expenses and travel will be paid for.

Your work placement will see you embedded in one of three dynamic SDNPA Ranger Teams, and include opportunities to work with partner organisations, giving you varied, hands-on experience across the wider National Park landscape.

You’ll be part of an inclusive and collaborative environment, learning from experts and contributing to vital projects. Your will be supported by a Line Manager (Lead Ranger) and Workplace Mentor (Ranger) to deliver a work programme relevant to your apprenticeship, and develop the skills and knowledge to meet the required standard.

Three roles are available this year, one based in each of the following area offices:

• 1x Western Area (Droxford) Include map links
• 1x Central Area (Singleton)
• 1x Eastern Area (Stanmer & Seven Sisters)

Eligibility criteria:

We would love to hear from you if you will meet the following criteria at the enrolment date of the role (September 2025):

• Aged 16 or over
• Not in full time education
• Have the right to work in the UK and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for three consecutive years before starting the apprenticeship
• Not on any other training or education programme (e.g. studying towards an apprenticeship or degree)
• Not repeating a qualification: You cannot repeat a qualification you already hold (either at the same or a higher level).
• Driving license

Benefits:

27 days leave plus bank holidays, Pension, Cycle to work, Heat Scheme, , Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme

How to Apply:

To apply, please complete and return the following:

• SDNPA Apprenticeship Application Form
• Monitoring Form

Forms to be submitted by email to SDNPAapprentice@southdowns.gov.uk

Deadline:

11:59pm, Sunday 29 June 2025

Interview dates

22/23 July 2025 – In person interviews at South Downs Centre, Midhurst

Please note: applications must be submitted using the official SDNPA apprenticeship application form.

Documents:

• Application Form ( 140.42 Kb )
• Job Description and Person Specification ( 140.42 Kb )
• Monitoring Form ( 623.00 Kb )