Isaac: Assistant Ranger at Rockingham Forest Trust

Career progression: Following his placement, Isaac was kept on as an Assistant Ranger in a permanent role for Rockingham Forest Trust, where he continues to hone his conservation skills.

Isaac, 24, from East Midlands, felt his passion for conservation grow during his New to Nature traineeship as an Assistant Ranger at Stanwick Lakes, on behalf of Rockingham Forest Trust. This role meant constantly learning and building both skills and bridges! Isaac’s first green job has also formed a clear pathway into the sector for him to progress.

It was his love of animals that guided him towards conservation and wildlife.

Isaac had just finished his degree in Marine Biology when he applied for a New to Nature placement role that would give him practical experience in conservation, as well as academic. Initially, looking for work in practical or media-based conservation jobs was a dead end, as he continually came up against barriers of not holding a driving licence or lacking voluntary experience.

The role of Assistant Ranger was exactly what Isaac was looking for. It involved a range of duties on site, at Stanwick Lakes in the Nene Valley, including heritage and nature education for children, conservation and site maintenance. Above all, there was constant learning – both practical and theoretical – which Isaac looked forward to the most. 

Not only did he gain a brush cutter’s license and first aid training, but along the way Isaac has attained many practical skills such as how to use different machines, fix pumps, toilets and play equipment, and how to build bridges, pathways and fences. Throughout the traineeship he also developed soft skills, including teamwork, educating others and problem solving. For Isaac, this role has been a life-changing opportunity – one that has secured him permanent employment at Stanwick Lakes.

For Isaac, this role has been a life-changing opportunity – one that has secured him permanent employment at Stanwick Lakes.

Isaac said:

“To any young person wanting to kickstart a green career, know that you can do it. Find any chance you can get to volunteer or learn. Be willing to work hard and do things you might not expect or want to do.  

“People from all backgrounds should be able to access a job. Everyone brings a different perspective and ideas, which is how we can all progress. Everyone should also be given the same opportunities in life.  

“Employers need to stop expecting everyone to have everything and take a chance on people. Be ready to support and teach others. The government should also offer learning opportunities to all in different formats. Offer the chance to fall in love with nature from a young age. Support parents to allow them breathing room to foster love and support for our countryside.”