National Trust Apprenticeships

Want to work for The National Trust?

The National Trust’s motto is ‘For everyone, for ever’. Founded as a charity in 1895 by Octavia Hill, Sir Robert Hunter and Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, the organisation continues to protect and conserve the UK’s open spaces, gardens, forests, historic houses, castles and much more.

The Trust also includes a multi-million-pound food and drink business and a massive retail chain.

This diversity of functions means there are many opportunities for budding apprentices in a whole host of roles and sectors, from countryside, curatorship and conservation to communications and marketing, IT and business services.

Fancy getting your career started with a National trust apprenticeship? Read on to find out everything you need to know, along with some tips and tricks for landing the right role.

Which apprenticeships do they offer? 

The National Trust offers apprenticeships in the following subjects, among others:

  • Gardening – nurturing flowers and plants as part of large and small projects
  • IT – apprenticeships include cyber security and software development
  • Rangering – protecting and conserving the Trust’s natural landscapes and habitats
  • Heritage Crafts – learning traditional skills such as stonemasonry and joinery 
  • Project Management – covers everything from conservation to building
  • Business Administration – supporting teams across all areas of the Trust

What are the entry requirements?

The standard UK entry requirements apply:

  • You must be 16 or over
  • A UK resident
  • Not already in full-time education 

In addition, the Trust requires GCSE Grade C or above in Maths and English. Prior experience volunteering for the Trust is also desirable, though not essential.

When can I apply? 

Most National Trust apprenticeships open in April for an August or September start. However, that is not the case with all Trust apprenticeships. Some are added to the website on an ad-hoc basis throughout the year, so it’s always good to keep an eye on the jobs page.

The application for most Trust apprenticeships involves a written application followed by an interview. Check out our tips for writing your personal statement to get a head start on a killer application.

How long does a National Trust Apprenticeship last? 

Apprenticeships with The National Trust last a minimum of 12 months. However, some Trust apprenticeships run for far longer, depending on the role and level of apprenticeship. 

What happens at the end of the apprenticeship?

You will end the apprenticeship with new practical skills and a nationally recognised qualification in your chosen industry. Although there is no guarantee of a permanent role with the Trust, apprentices are encouraged to apply for open positions that match their skill set. Support for job hunting elsewhere is also provided.

Are the apprenticeships paid for positions? 

Yes, although your salary can vary between levels or apprenticeships and your specific role, you are entitled to at least the minimum wage for your age group.  

Are you interested?

An apprenticeship with The National Trust could be the first step to an exciting and fulfilling new career.

Read more about The National Trust apprenticeship program here. 

Relax. We’ll send the jobs to you.

Reckon you know what you want to do, but can’t find the perfect role? Most companies hire their apprentices in a ‘recruitment window’. This means many great jobs are only available for a short time once or twice each year.

Sign up for our job alerts service, and we’ll send you any jobs that fit your search criteria.