Eligibility

The apprenticeships are aimed at those people who are passionate about the natural environment and are keen to take this interest to the professional level. There are no age restrictions and no qualifications are required although most of the apprenticeships do ask for some background knowledge of the subject- this could have been obtained through voluntary work, amateur biological recording or knowledge gained from other sources such as personal study and research.

The main criteria for eligibility are:

• A passion for nature conservation and a desire to follow a career in the environmental sector.
• The commitment to complete a 12-18 month placement, possibly in different locations throughout Scotland or Northern Ireland.
• The willingness to work to the high standard required by placement mentors and providers and undertake assessments as required.
• The independence to complete additional private study required in addition to hours worked.
• Applicants must be resident in the UK at the time of applying.

The apprenticeships are based mainly in Scotland and Northern Ireland although some apprenticeships may include a placement in England. The apprenticeship scheme was developed specifically to address the skills shortages identified in the natural heritage sectors in these countries and although there are no restrictions on nationality, applicants must have sincere intentions about keeping the skills they learn within Scotland and Northern Ireland.