Apprenticeships are a great way to gain qualifications whilst you work, earn money, and gain the skills you need to work in your chosen sector. Plus the combination of knowledge and experience means apprentices stand out from the crowd, which is really important in industries such as conservation, where gaining experience and getting paid work can sometimes be difficult.
Our current apprentices Amelia, Rob, and Ryan were recruited through the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust’s Green Futures programme and are all working towards formal qualifications at Craven College, Skipton. When they aren’t studying they’re out with us as well as gaining practical skills and attending extra courses which give them the certificates they need to operate machinery such as ATVs and chainsaws, as well as permission to use chemicals and pesticides.
Some of the tasks our apprentices plan, organise, and attend include fencing, tree planting, fish pass maintenance, and litter clean ups. They also help plan and take part in activities that inform, engage, and inspire people to be more actively involved in looking after their local environment such as guided walks, shows, and school visits.
Michelle, our first apprentice, joined us in 2017, quickly learning how the Trust worked, and leading up to planning and running her own volunteer days. After Michelle gained her qualifications, she left the Trust to progress her career- you can read about her success here.
All our apprentices have interests and skill sets which are already proving to be a huge advantage to the Trust. We’re helping them to develop these skills so that whether they choose to stay with us, or follow a different career path like Michelle, they’ll be well equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to help our environment flourish.
