A day in the life
I am the Apprentice Ranger, covering Dover, Ashford and everywhere in between. My daily work consists of running volunteer task days, maintaining site infrastructure, working with livestock, delivering projects and habitat management. You can never predict how each day will work out.
Twice a week, I'm out with the Dover or Ashford warren and volunteers, where most of the work on reserves takes place. Over the winter we've been mainly cutting and clearing vegetation to allow fresh regrowth in the spring. This is where my skills with tools, such as chainsaw and brush cutter, have been developed and now I'm confident to use these tools to carry out large-scale habitat works. In summer there's more focus on site infrastructure and surveying. These months have massively improved my wildlife knowledge and given me a massive appreciation for the importance of Kent for wildlife.
I've also gained a lot of knowledge from the volunteers, not just in conservation but also local history and more. Between the areas I've had the opportunity to work in many habitats from heath and downland to wetland and forest. This has given me a lot of confidence to know the general conservation techniques, as well as the specific challenges unique to different habitats.
Leading my own volunteer group
Once a week I've been running a volunteer group by myself in the High Downs area. These reserves are tucked away in the countryside and as a result they're very beautiful and quiet. I have a strong attachment to these sites and find it very satisfying to see the progress we're making. A particular highlight was the Christmas task, where we finished up a coppicing project and celebrated by sharing a Christmas lunch around a big bonfire. It was a good chance to give a proper thanks to the volunteers for all the hard work they've put in.
Skills and growth
Since starting, I have improved massively. Not only have I gained qualifications in using machinery, but I've also developed practical skills such as fencing, habitat management, and hedge-laying. My understanding of our sites and local wildlife is expanding every day. Additionally, meeting so many people across the organisation has helped me appreciate how the trust operates and how many dedicated individuals contribute to delivering our conservation goals.
The work itself is incredibly rewarding. Seeing the immediate impact of our efforts and then returning to find wildlife thriving in those areas is hugely satisfying. The people I work with make the job even more enjoyable, and the livestock always provide some entertainment along the way!
My advice
I would highly recommend this apprenticeship to anyone looking to get into conservation. The level of training and hands-on experience provided ensures that even those with little prior experience can develop the skills needed to become a capable countryside ranger.
National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the value of apprenticeships, and I'm proud to be part of a programme that is making a real difference for both people and nature. If you're considering a career in conservation, I'd say "go for it!"
Oliver Bell, Apprentice (Monitoring and Evidence and Grazing)
During my second year of studying Bioscience at Cardiff University, I got the chance to undertake a year in industry. Looking to make the most of this opportunity, I emailed Kent Wildlife Trust. Luckily, they said yes, and I have now been working here for four exciting months.
As part of both the Monitoring and Evidence team and the Grazing team, I spend most of my time driving out to sites all over Kent to monitor how different breeds of livestock affect biodiversity. My research involves looking at how different breeds are eating, what they are eating, where they are grazing and where they're not. I hope that my research will help further the understanding of conservation grazing throughout the UK and guide graziers on what breed should graze their site.
From beavers to 4x4s: learning new skills
I have had so many new and exciting training experiences in this placement year. One of the most exciting was taking the 4x4 off-road driving course. I have also spent time on a beaver field course, where I got to see signs of rare beaver activity. I've spent time tracking down cows that were intent on hiding themselves deep in the woodland, and I've built a hay store for goats. I've also acquired field-specific practical skills: conducting vegetation surveys, using GIS and taking a UK habitat course. My understanding of how to carry out research in the field has grown massively, and I have made so many connections within the industry that can hopefully help me after I graduate.
Making a difference for nature
This placement at Kent Wildlife Trust has been one of the best decisions I have made, and I would recommend it to anyone. Not only do I get to spend my days outdoors, adventuring in the countryside, but I also get to conduct research whilst doing it. What is most rewarding is the feeling that I am helping to tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis. This year in industry has allowed me to find out what it's like to have a job in the conservation sector, which I never thought was possible before this placement, and has helped me explore my passion. One of my favourite things about working at Kent Wildlife Trust is the people I work with and the fulfilment I get working for an organisation that is actively bringing benefits to people and the environment and restoring nature to Kent. I am excited to see what the next eight months hold.
Martin Dobinson, Apprentice
I wanted to retrain and change careers, and the apprenticeship was a fantastic way for me to do that. It has allowed me to step into a career that better suits my interests, skills, and capabilities. Every day, I’m learning something new, building on the skills I’ve developed, and forming great working relationships with colleagues and volunteers.
I really enjoy the variety, no two days have been the same. Meeting and getting to know so many like-minded people at Kent Wildlife Trust has been a highlight; everyone has been incredibly friendly and genuinely invested in my personal development.
I would absolutely recommend an apprenticeship. It’s been the perfect way for me to start a career in conservation, and the amount of learning, guidance, and support I’ve received has been invaluable.