Internship programme provides launch pad for careers in forestry
The Heart of England Forest internship programme provides budding foresters with the skills and experience needed to forge a career within the modern forestry industry. At a time when there’s a well-documented decline in people seeking a career within forestry, we’re proud to be investing in the foresters of tomorrow.
About the programme
The Forestry Skills Plan reports that more than 50% of the current sector workforce is over 40 years old, and that there will be even worse skills shortages in the future if the number of new entrants into the sector does not increase.
Our interns receive a high-quality internship within a unique setting. The programme offers a complete woodland journey from our in-house tree nursery, through to woodland creation, planning and maintenance.
The year-long programme provides our interns with robust and relevant experience, enabling them to progress into a career within the forestry or land management industry. All our internships are paid placements at Living Wage Foundation rates.
A launch pad for careers in forestry
Before taking up her intern position in July, Nicole worked on a self-employed basis for both forestry and ecology contractors around Worcestershire: “The charity is very committed to providing training for interns which is a fantastic launch pad for our future careers in forestry. I definitely see myself going into a forest management role in the future.”
Emily started her internship at the end of October 2018: “It’s a great opportunity to improve on my practical forestry skills and get a better understanding of forest creation. I’ve enjoyed being able to carry out butterfly surveys around the forest and would like to continue to work in conservation after my internship, developing my surveying and habitat management skills.”
Helping deliver the charity’s vision
As well providing a first step into a career in forestry, the programme equips interns with the skills, experience and competencies needed to deliver the charity’s vision into the future. More than that, it helps develop talent in the region and shape a stronger more sustainable work force.
Head Forester Stephen says: “Our interns have a significant positive impact on the existing forestry team helping to maintain and manage our woodlands. They also support our important work to open up more parts of the forest to the public, benefiting both the local and wider communities.”
Interested in our forestry internship programme?
Whether you’re looking to kick start your career or for a change in vocation, our internship programme could be for you. All intern opportunities are advertised in the jobs and careers area of our website.
