The apprenticeship is delivered by Cumbria Connect in partnership with the RSPB, Lowther Estate, and The Ernest Cook Trust, and funded by the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme.

Elli and her peers gain experience across three working landscapes:

• Wild Haweswater (RSPB)
• Low Beckside Farm (The Ernest Cook Trust)
• Lowther Estate

They learn practical skills in:

• Livestock husbandry and conservation grazing
• Habitat restoration and woodland management
• Species surveys, including reintroductions like Water Voles
• Practical training: tractors, quad bikes, shearing, grazing planning, vet & med care

“There are three farms within the apprenticeship, so I’m gaining valuable work experience and learning three completely different approaches to doing things,” Elli said. “I’ve loved spending time on the Lowther Estate with Longhorn cattle, water buffalo and pigs. The pigs play such an important role in restoring woodland and grassland by disturbing the soil and clearing space for shrubs, flowers and seeds to germinate.”

She also highlights her experience leading volunteers in tree planting and upcoming training in hedge laying and dry-stone walling with the Ernest Cook Trust.

The scheme gives apprentices a unique chance to combine financial stability with fully-funded training, mentoring, and a supportive network of professionals. The first cohort of three apprentices has now completed the programme. Two new apprentices have recently started after a competitive application process with over 150 applicants.

“Watching the apprentices grow in confidence and skills has been extraordinary,” said Faith Garvey, Cumbria Connect Apprentice Supervisor. “They’ve learnt to handle livestock, care for the land and understand how farming and nature can support each other. Their resilience and willingness to step into a tough industry as new entrants have set a high standard for everyone who follows.”