How to become a countryside ranger
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
University
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree. Relevant courses include:
- environmental studies
- rural resource management
- countryside management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
College
You may be able to get into this job with a college course such as:
- Level 2 Diploma in Countryside and Environment
- Level 3 Diploma in Countryside Management.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
More Information
Apprenticeship
The following apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
- Level 2 Countryside worker
- Level 4 Countryside ranger
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
Volunteering
You could get experience by volunteering with National Parks UK or conservation charities like The Wildlife Trusts. This will give you an advantage when you're looking for work.
You can search for jobs and volunteering opportunities at Countryside Jobs Service
More Information
Career tips
A first aid qualification may help when applying for jobs.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Countryside Management Association for professional development training and to build up your contacts.
Further information
You can get more details about training to be a countryside ranger through National Parks UK and the National Land Based College.