Yorkshire Dales Apprenticeship Scheme Creates Jobs for the Next Generation

A rural apprenticeship scheme in the Yorkshire Dales has just hit a major milestone. For the first time, one of its former apprentices has hired an apprentice of their own—proving that investing in young people today can create opportunities for generations to come.

From apprentice to employer

Thirteen years ago, Zach Thompson was just starting out in conservation. Thanks to the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) Rural Apprenticeship Scheme, he was able to gain the skills and experience needed to build a career in the countryside. Now, he's co-founded his own environmental contracting company, Field & Fell, and taken on an apprentice himself—James.

For Jo Boulter, who manages the scheme at YDMT, this was a full-circle moment. "We were thrilled to support James with his apprenticeship—not just because Zach was one of my first apprentices, but because this is exactly why the scheme was created in the first place," she said.

The goal? To help young people find work while staying in the Yorkshire Dales, equipping them with skills to protect the landscape they grew up in.

16 years of helping young people build careers

The Rural Apprenticeship Scheme was launched in 2009, funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. It was designed to give young people a pathway into conservation and environmental work—careers that often require hands-on experience before getting a foot in the door.

Fast forward to 2024, and the scheme has taken on its biggest group of apprentices yet. Many of them work with local employers, gaining real-world experience while studying at Craven College in Skipton.

The results speak for themselves:

• 80% of apprentices go on to work in the environment sector or continue their education.
• Some, like Zach, have started their own businesses.
• The scheme has helped dozens of young people stay and work in the countryside instead of having to move away for jobs.

Lottery players making a difference

Since 2009, People’s Postcode Lottery players have raised £4.8 million for YDMT, supporting projects that benefit the people, wildlife, and landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales.

Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, highlighted the impact of their funding:

"Zach’s journey from apprentice to employer is a testament to the scheme’s success in creating sustainable career paths. By equipping apprentices with skills to conserve and enhance the countryside, this initiative not only supports individuals but also strengthens rural communities and landscapes for future generations.”

A future rooted in the countryside

James, the new apprentice at Field & Fell, is just beginning his journey. With an 18-month placement ahead of him, he's already gaining hands-on experience in conservation work.

As Zach put it:

"Through YDMT’s Rural Apprenticeship funding, James is with us on an 18-month placement and has already learned a lot."

With continued support from the community, businesses, and People’s Postcode Lottery players, the scheme is set to help even more young people build meaningful careers—while ensuring the Yorkshire Dales remains a place where both nature and people can thrive.