At a Glance
- Tasks: Promote sustainable forestry, support woodland creation, and engage with communities.
- Company: Join the Forestry Commission and be part of a passionate team.
- Benefits: Earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience and professional qualifications.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic learning environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change and biodiversity through forestry.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for forestry and the environment.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
Sustainable forestry in England is key to mitigating the impacts of climate change, responding to the biodiversity crisis, ensuring long-term timber supplies thus reducing our reliance on imports, improving our mental and physical wellbeing, and in providing a resilient and beautiful landscape in which we can live, work and play. If you are passionate about the role of forestry in creating a better future for England, and want to play a key part in realising that, we want to hear from you.
By joining the Forestry Commission, you will become part of a professional and committed team and be able to build on a wealth of expertise to take this ambitious work forward. The Development Woodland Officer programme is an exciting new career pathway into the forestry sector through the degree Level 6 Professional Forester Apprenticeship Programme. It is designed for people seeking a forestry career, including those without prior experience. This 3-year programme has been developed to lead and coach through a wide range of learning activities, supported by on the job training to build on forestry experience and knowledge, not just from within the Forestry Commission but across the entire forestry sector.
You will develop the skills and knowledge required to become a modern Professional Forester through a blend of academic study and practical experience. Although there are practical forestry elements to the work, the significant focus is on a rigorous academic programme. This is not “a walk in the woods”!
The programme includes:
- Bimonthly residential training blocks led by the University of Cumbria
- Enrichment training from Forestry Commission specialists
- On the job learning within an Area Team
- Opportunities for wider sector placements
On completion of the 3-year programme, successful graduates will earn a Level 6 Professional Forester Apprenticeship, a BSc (Hons) Professional Forester degree and the potential to gain Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters, in addition to gaining 3 years’ work experience. This will provide the building blocks to continue a career in the forestry sector as a professional forester, planning, advising, managing, and supervising forestry activities and operations.
You will develop a sound understanding of Sustainable Forestry through academic learning and in supporting staff within your Forest Services Area Team. You will build capability across the following areas, initially in a supportive capacity, progressing as your skills grow:
- Expanding woodland cover: Promote the multiple benefits of woodland creation. Support the design and delivery of new woodlands. Administer Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations. Process woodland creation grant applications.
- Protecting our existing trees and woodlands: Administer Forestry Act felling licences. Support EIA processes for deforestation and forest infrastructure. Apply Habitats Regulations in protected landscapes. Provide advice on related environmental legislation.
- Improving the condition and resilience of our existing woodlands and wider treescape: Advocate active woodland management. Support responses to pests and diseases. Help build climate resilience. Facilitate collaboration across the forestry sector.
- Engaging partners, stakeholders and the public: Build strong partnerships to expand, protect and improve woodlands. Promote the value of trees and woodland management to the public.
Development Woodland Officer (Degree Apprenticeship) - South West Area Team in Exeter employer: Government Recruitment Service
The Forestry Commission is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to engage in sustainable forestry while contributing to the fight against climate change and enhancing biodiversity. With a strong focus on professional development through the Degree Level 6 Professional Forester Apprenticeship Programme, employees benefit from a blend of academic study and practical experience, supported by a collaborative work culture that values innovation and community engagement. Located in the South West, this role not only provides meaningful work but also fosters personal growth and the chance to make a tangible impact on England's landscapes.
Contact Details:
Government Recruitment Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Woodland Officer (Degree Apprenticeship) - South West Area Team in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the forestry sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Forestry Commission and its projects. Show us your passion for sustainable forestry and how you can contribute to their mission. We want to see that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you genuinely care about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable talking about your skills and experiences. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, go ahead and hit that apply button!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Woodland Officer (Degree Apprenticeship) - South West Area Team in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Forestry:Let us see your enthusiasm for sustainable forestry! In your application, share why you care about the role of forestry in tackling climate change and enhancing biodiversity. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Development Woodland Officer role. Highlight any relevant experiences or skills that align with the job description, even if they come from different fields. We love seeing how diverse backgrounds can contribute to our mission!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to express your ideas and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and understand, so don’t overcomplicate things!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Forestry Stuff
Make sure you brush up on sustainable forestry practices and the role of woodlands in combating climate change. Familiarise yourself with current issues in the forestry sector, such as biodiversity and environmental legislation, so you can speak confidently about how you can contribute.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for forestry shine through! Share personal experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability and woodland management. This will help the interviewers see that you're not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the training programme, opportunities for growth within the Forestry Commission, or how they measure success in their projects. It shows you're engaged and interested in the role.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common interview questions. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing your understanding of the apprenticeship programme and its requirements.
