Hugh
All Access Trainee
Age - 22
Despite gaining transferrable skills through his chemistry degree, Hugh found it challenging to access entry-level opportunities in the conservation sector without prior education or experience.
At 22, the New to Nature programme provided him with the opportunity to develop the necessary skills and gain hands-on experience to pursue his passion for conservation work.
After graduating, Hugh was working at his local Tesco branch, but had ambitions to start a career in the conservation sector.
The New to Nature placement at Earth Trust particularly stood out to Hugh. The organisation had a variety of sites to explore, including woodlands and grass meadows, and had a real focus on nature-based solutions to ecological challenges.
“More people should definitely have the opportunity to participate in a programme like this. It gives direction to people who are looking to join the environmental sector and gives them a way forward. “
During his traineeship, Hugh worked on multiple projects, including surveying ancient and veteran trees, organising volunteer activities, and managing youth engagement programmes. These responsibilities enabled him to develop practical skills, such as project management, risk assessment preparation, and leading volunteer sessions. He also gained a deeper understanding of biodiversity, particularly the ecological importance of ancient trees.
Hugh’s work at Earth Trust solidified his ambition to grow a career in conservation, specifically protecting UK woodlands, with hopes to work on rewilding and native species reintroduction projects across the UK.
The New to Nature programme has been pivotal in equipping Hugh with the tools to begin his conservation career, offering him a pathway into the environmental sector and the skills and confidence to achieve his goals.
“Despite having many transferrable skills and a passion for wildlife and the environment, I would have found it extremely difficult to find an entry level role that is similar to my placement.”
New to Nature is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the celebrations to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s Coronation, delivered through a partnership of Groundwork, The King’s Trust, Disability Rights UK, Mission Diverse and the Youth Environmental Service.
