Two apprentices are now forging careers in the outdoors, thanks to Gloucestershire-based education charity The Ernest Cook Trust.
Jacob Phillipson and Molly Haughton-Wright have both joined the Trust as Countryside Worker apprentices.
The pair are among an expanding group of trainees and apprentices supported by The Ernest Cook Trust across the organisation, which offers practical pathways into green skills careers based in the outdoors and in Outdoor Learning.
As the UK marks National Apprenticeship Week (February 10-16), the Trust – which works UK wide and is headquartered in Fairford – is celebrating the achievements of all its apprentices and trainees.
The Ernest Cook Trust owns land across six counties, using its income to fund and deliver programmes which support Outdoor Learning.
Molly is working on the Trust’s Fairford and Hatherop estates, while Jacob is based on its land in Slimbridge. Their apprenticeships are being run in partnership with Sparsholt College, Winchester.
Both are enjoying their apprenticeships so far, but looking forward to better weather!
Molly said: “I have grown up in this area and am really passionate about the local wildlife and local environment. I can see myself pursuing this long-term. I’d definitely recommend the apprenticeship route as it is really hands-on. I was quite academic, but this is a much more enjoyable way to learn and is focused on what I will be doing for my career.”
Jacob added: “I didn’t want to go to university and do another three years in study, and I had always wanted to work outside. Plus, an apprenticeship is a great way to get a qualification and experience, and get paid at the same time.”
Jacob’s family have a smallholding, but this type of work is new to him.
“I love it. I look forward to going into work every day and will happily do this for a career. We have done loads of things already, starting with a big tree safety job. At the moment, we are tidying, so the hedge cutter can come in, because the hedges are topped every three years.”
Sophie Newbery, HR Coordinator at The Ernest Cook Trust said: “I am particularly proud of the unique apprenticeship courses we offer at the Trust and the way in which we engage with people about the opportunities”.