Job Title

Nature Reserve Apprentice

Location

Bethnal Green Nature Reserve, London, UK

About Us

Bethnal Green Nature Reserve is an urban oasis in the heart of the Teesdale and Hollybush Estate, Bethnal Green. The Bethnal Green Nature Reserve is dedicated to promoting biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

Job Description

As a Nature Reserve Apprentice, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the care and enhancement of our Nature Reserve and our new food growing garden, while gaining valuable hands-on experience in horticulture and nature conservation. This role is specifically tailored for residents who live on the Teesdale and Hollybush Estate. We are looking for people who are passionate about nature and gardening.

Responsibilities

1. Food Garden Management: Assist in the day-to-day upkeep of the new food garden, including planting, weeding, watering, pruning, mulching, and general maintenance tasks to ensure the good condition of the space.

2. Nature Reserve Management: Assist in the day-to-day upkeep of the Nature Reserve, including habitat management, ecology surveying and general maintenance tasks to ensure the health of the site.

3. Assistance with Projects: Support the Community Gardener and Site Manager in the implementation of site improvement projects, such as path construction, signage installation, harvesting and habitat creation.

5. Community Engagement: Interact with visitors, volunteers, and community members in a friendly and welcoming manner, providing information about the gardens, nature reserve, volunteering opportunities, and upcoming events.

6. Learning and Development: Take advantage of training opportunities and mentorship provided by experienced staff to enhance your horticultural knowledge, gardening skills, and understanding of ecological principles.

7. Health and Safety: Adhere to health and safety guidelines, risk assessments, and environmental policies to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and others.

Qualities of Apprentice (essential)

- Resident of Teesdale and Hollybush Estate, Bethnal Green.

- Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.

- Good with people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

- A passion for gardening, nature, and environmental conservation.

- Willingness to learn and work as part of a team in an outdoor setting.

- Ability to perform manual tasks outdoors in various weather conditions.

- Availability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends (Saturdays).

Benefits

- Hands-on experience in horticulture and conservation within a supportive environment.

- Opportunity to contribute to the beauty and biodiversity of a local green space.

- Access to training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

- A sense of pride and satisfaction in making a positive impact on your community.

We welcome applications from as wide a range of voices as possible and are especially encouraging applicants with unique perspectives and/or lived experiences related to race, class, disability, sex and gender.

How to Apply

If you are a local resident (Teesdale and Hollybush Estate), passionate about gardening and eager to contribute to the care of Bethnal Green Nature Reserve, we want to hear from you!

Please submit x1 A4 page cover letter telling us about yourself, why you would like the role, your availability to start the role, previous experience or skills you possess.

You are also welcome to share a short video or audio files (5 minutes maximum) instead of a cover letter.

Application Deadline

29^th April 2024

Applications should be emailed to [info@bethnalgreennaturereserve.org] by 12pm, 29^th April 2024.

Contract Terms

- Freelance: £13.75 per hour

- Working hours: 8 hours per week (inc. 1 hour paid lunch break), 11^th May till 30^th November 2024 (subject to DBS)

- x3 month probation review

The Bethnal Green Nature Reserve is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to apply and join us in caring for our shared green spaces.