Nature-Friendly Farming Apprenticeship Scheme

Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship Scheme

Shaping the Future of Nature-Friendly Farming

Welcome to the Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship Scheme—a first-of-a-kind programme for those passionate about conservation and farming with nature. This isn’t just an apprenticeship; it’s a commitment to the future of our landscapes.

Here, you’ll learn how to manage land in harmony with nature, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to protect our environment while supporting nature-friendly farming.

 

 

What is the Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship Scheme?

The Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship Scheme is a pioneering programme designed to train the next generation of land managers.

By working across some of Cumbria’s most iconic landscapes, you’ll gain hands-on experience in nature-friendly farming, conservation and habitat restoration. This is a chance to immerse yourself in the practical side of nature-friendly farming, learning how to manage livestock, restore ecosystems and contribute to a sustainable future.

The programme encompasses experience working on three farms: Wild Haweswater with the RSPB, Low Beckside Farm with The Ernest Cook Trust, and the Lowther Estate, each offering a distinct learning environment.

Our Nature-Friendly Farming Apprentices are at the forefront of efforts to restore biodiversity and make farming part of the solution to the challenges our environment faces.

Why Choose the Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship?

The Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship is about more than just gaining qualifications—it’s about making a difference.

Our apprentices are at the cutting edge of farming with nature, learning how to manage land in a way that benefits both people and wildlife. With the hands-on experience you gain here, you’ll be well-equipped to lead the way in nature-friendly farming.

Elli Foxton
Yasmin Alieskandari
Joe Walker

Level 4 Apprentice

At just 20 years old, Elli Foxton became the first Nature-Friendly Farming Apprentice on the Cumbria Connect scheme, after overcoming months of job searching and applying for over 150 roles. Originally from urban Teesside, Elli made the courageous decision to move to rural Cumbria on her own, driven by her passion for agriculture and land management.

Elli’s journey into farming began with a Level 3 Animal Management course at Askham Bryan College, followed by a transformative two-year placement on an alpaca farm. This experience sparked her love for farming and led her to gain further practical experience on local farms, even as she faced a tough job market.

Undeterred, Elli took up a six-month contract with the RSPB at Haweswater, where she developed her skills in regenerative grazing and farm machinery. Now, as our Level 4 Apprentice, Elli is thriving, gaining diverse experience across three different farms. From working with Longhorn cattle and pigs on the Lowther Estate to participating in water vole releases at Wild Haweswater, Elli is fully immersed in her role.

"This Apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity—a once in a lifetime thing. It pays a good wage, and all the training is fully funded. The experience you gain from working in three different workplaces gives you a real head start for future job prospects. You really don’t want to miss out on it."

Elli Foxton, Nature-Friendly Farming Apprentice

Level 3 Apprentice

Yasmine is currently undertaking the Level 3 Livestock Handling Apprenticeship as part of the Nature-Friendly Farming Programme. Yasmine's journey into land management was shaped by her deep passion for the natural world and a notable career change. With a degree in conservation biology and a background at the Freshwater Biological Association, she blends her scientific knowledge with a commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Her personal journey reflects a dedication to follow a career that not only aligns with her values, but also contributes to the greater good of the environment and future generations.

Level 3 Apprentice

Coming soon

How to apply

For more information on how to apply for the Cumbria Connect Apprenticeship Scheme, please complete the contact form below and one of our team will be in contact to discuss the opportunities available.