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Apprentice Countryside Ranger Eastleigh Borough Council Eastleigh Borough Council
Are you a practical outdoors person that wants to pursue a career working in the countryside? Do you have a strong interest in nature conservation and want to make a difference on the ground? We are looking for an enthusiastic person to join our Countryside team to help us manage our 24 countryside reserves around the borough.
Closing date: 17 Aug 2022
Apprenticeship summary
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Annual wage
£10,250.00
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Working week
Working week Monday - Friday 8 - 4pm. Some weekend working may be required.
Total hours per week: 37
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Expected duration
18 Months
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Possible start date
02 Oct 2022
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Date posted
22 Jul 2022
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Apprenticeship level
Intermediate
Level 2 (GCSE) -
Reference number
VAC1000068952
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Positions
1 available
What will the apprentice be doing?
You will carry out a wide variety of tasks with the team across our reserves which will support your qualification including:
• Using hand and power tools to cut scrub and bramble to restore open heathlands, meadows and glades
• Felling and coppicing trees in our ancient woodlands
• Driving in wooden posts to install and repair cattle fencing
• Digging out wetlands and ditches to maintain and restore ponds and watercourses
• Carrying out site inspections and assisting with infrastructure repairs (eg fences, bridges, boardwalks)
• Helping to lead volunteers delivering a wide range of practical conservation tasks throughout the year.
• Assisting with all aspects of health and safety to ensure the work of the team is done safely.
You will be based at Itchen Valley Country Park in West End but will be required to work across the borough. A full, clean driving licence would be an advantage but not essential for the apprenticeship role.
What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?
Qualification:
Level 2 Countryside Worker Apprenticeship
The knowledge aligns to a level 2 qualification in Environmental Conservation
Block-release at College
Duration:
12 - 18 months
What will I learn?
Countryside Workers carry out specific environmental and conservation tasks and they will also be clear about how practical conservation work interacts with the productive and recreational use of the countryside, including allied farming (livestock and crop production) and sporting activities (most commonly fishing and shooting) and how these relate to countryside management practices. For example, a Countryside Worker would know that work on paths on upland farms should avoid lambing season and that work on grouse habitat should be done in the winter.
Countryside Workers will be able and willing to do challenging work outdoors, in a variety of locations, which may be remote, including moorland, heathland, woodland and coast, interact with the public and explain their work as well as undertaking their role all year round in a variety of weathers, both on their own and as part of a team.
The following will be provided as part of the apprenticeship:
The Safe Use of Pesticides (PA1) NPTC – Award – Level 2
Brushcutters and Strimmers training
Level 3 award in Emergency First Aid at Work
Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-cutting C&G – Certificate of Competence – Level 2
As part of the apprenticeship programme you will be required to undertake both on and off-the-job training. While your employer will be responsible for your training on-the-job (workplace), the College and your employer will be jointly responsible for your off-the-job training enabling you to help develop the right knowledge, skills and behaviours to become competent in your job role.
You will attend College on a block-release basis during term-time for the duration of your programme with us, to gain knowledge and develop some practical skills. The College will agree additional off-the-job training with your employer to ensure you develop the majority of your skills and behaviours in the workplace.
What grades will I need?
Five GCSEs at 9–3/A*–E (Including English and Maths).
How will I be assessed?
Apprentices must meet the knowledge, skills, and behaviours as defined within the standard. All apprentices must take an independent assessment at the end of their training to assess their ability and competence in their job role.
Where will it lead me?
Estate Worker
Access Ranger
Maintenance Ranger
Site Warden
Assistant Ranger
Field Operative
Volunteer Leader
What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?
Where will it lead me?
Estate Worker
Access Ranger
Maintenance Ranger
Site Warden
Assistant Ranger
Field Operative
Volunteer Leader
Requirements and prospects
Desired skills and personal qualities
Qualifications
GCSE or equivalent Math (Grade C/4 or above) Desired
Things to consider
About the employer
Employer
Eastleigh Borough Council
Address
Eastleigh House
Upper Market Street
Eastleigh
SO50 9YN
Training
Apprenticeship standard
Countryside worker
Level 2 (GCSE)
Before you apply
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