Wildlife Ranger Traineeship in Cumbria

September 2025

Training the next generation of Wildlife Rangers to restore Cumbria’s landscapes

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Cumbria’s landscapes are full of potential – from rolling woodlands, to rivers and valleys that are home to some of our country’s most loved species. But nature here faces real challenges.

High deer numbers are slowing woodland growth, non-native American Mink continue to threaten water voles, and Grey Squirrels put pressure on native Red Squirrels.

Tackling these issues is essential if we want our wildlife and habitats to thrive for generations to come.

That’s why we’ve launched our Wildlife Ranger Traineeship.

Introducing the Wildlife Ranger Traineeship

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Over 18 months, the trainee will work with our partners – Forestry England, Lowther estate and the National Trust – learning a mix of traditional countryside skills and modern ecological science. From deer population and predator management to habitat restoration, wildlife law and drone surveying, the training will prepare them to take on one of the most important jobs in nature recovery – helping to restore balance.

The traineeship also plays a key role in shaping a new Wildlife Ranger Apprenticeship, which we hope will soon be rolled out nationally. By feeding back on their experience, our trainee will help shape the course so that future rangers get the practical, real-world skills they’ll need to succeed.

A Wildlife Ranger accompanied by her dog, while carrying out deer management work in Cumbria

Building on past success: Nature-friendly farming Apprenticeship

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This isn’t the first time Cumbria Connect has opened up new career paths in nature recovery. Our nature-friendly farming apprenticeship, launched in 2023, has already trained three apprentices, with the new cohort starting this month. It’s proof that nature recovery isn’t just good for wildlife, it’s also creating meaningful jobs, developing new skills and strengthening rural communities.

The UK’s commitment to protecting 30% of land and sea by 2030 (30by30) underlines why this work matters. Every tree planted, river restored, and habitat carefully managed contributes to national nature recovery targets — and our traineeship helps ensure there’s a skilled workforce ready to make it happen.

Nature recovery is a growing industry and it’s exciting to see opportunities like this take root right here in Cumbria. If you’re curious or inspired by what this role could offer, find out more and apply here: www.connectfornature.org.uk/opportunities

 

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