Published : Thu 6th Feb
Kitty wanted to find a fulfilling role that combined practical learning with a real job, so opted for an apprenticeship. Having discovered a deep connection to green spaces, particularly growing up in Brighton with the coast and South Downs nearby, this apprenticeship offered an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of these cherished environments, inspiring and benefiting both nature and communities, making it an ideal choice for her:
Why did you choose to apply for a Cultural Learning and Participation Officer apprenticeship, and why here at the National Trust?
A bit tired of writing essays and unsure of a career path that I wanted to follow, I decided not to pursue the university route after leaving college, wanting to gain some practical work experience instead. And I very much did! I tried my hand at around 6 different roles in an assortment of fields, but after 7 years of giving things a go, I felt no closer at knowing what I wanted to do.
What I do know is that I’m my happiest when I’m outdoors, in places where I can enjoy nature. I’ve grown up in Brighton and have grown up feeling incredibly lucky to have the coast on my doorstep and South Downs over my shoulder. If anything, in recent years I’ve come to appreciate this even more, always looking forward to a chance to get out and see some greenery.
The idea of working for the National Trust felt like an opportunity to give back to the places that give me so much joy, whilst also helping to protect them for others to experience. Knowing that the work I’d be doing would contribute to something bigger—something that inspires, connects, and benefits nature and communities— was incredibly motivating.
What are the best things about the apprenticeship?
Without a doubt, the best part of being part of the Community and Participation team for Changing Chalk has been the people and the purpose behind our work.
Without a doubt, one of the best things about this apprenticeship have been the characters that I’ve met along the way, and the stories shared with me (often, the best tales told on windy hillsides!)
It’s been such a positive and environment, and inspiring to be surrounded by people who are so dedicated and committed to making a difference. That, and to know that what I’m doing has a tangible impact—bringing people together, connecting them with the landscape and its heritage and helping to protect it for future generations, gives me such a strong sense of purpose and is something that makes me love coming to work every day.
What challenges have you faced?
One of the biggest challenges has been the sheer diversity of the role—but it’s also one of the things I’ve enjoyed the most. No two days are ever the same, and that variety has pushed me to constantly adapt and learn. One day I might be on the Downs at a youth volunteering session that I’ve organised, and the next, I might be planning events or sharing our work and opportunities in the community. It’s been a steep learning curve to juggle such different tasks, but the variety keeps me constantly motivated and excited for what’s next. This role has taught me to be flexible, resourceful, and open to whatever comes next, and I have gained so many vital new skills that I am sure that I will be using for the rest of my career – wherever that leads me!
Have you done anything unexpected during your apprenticeship?
Absolutely! I’ve had so many ‘I can’t believe I get to do this’ moments. Organising a camping weekend and community network meetings, promoting Changing Chalk at a festival over the summer, and even stepping into practical conservation work—these are all things I didn’t expect to be part of but have loved every minute of.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing people discover a new passion for the nature around them and go home inspired – in many ways, it’s been an unexpectedly humbling experience. After activities on the Downs, I’ve heard people of all walks of life say that they now ‘see and appreciate more of their surroundings’ which I think is an amazing gift to be able to give someone. Things like that remind me why I wanted to pursue this role in the first place—to create opportunities for others to feel the same connection to the outdoors that has been so important to me.
How have the training provider/college supported you?
The college training provider have been flexible and understanding, which has been a great help when balancing work and study. The modules I follow are relevant to what I do day-to-day, which has made the learning feel so practical and engaging.
When it comes to the Changing Chalk Team, I’ve felt not just welcomed but truly valued. The team is full of passionate, driven individuals who’s share a real commitment to the work we’re doing, and that energy is infectious. There’s always someone ready to offer advice or lend a helping hand, and the willingness to share knowledge and resources has made it easy for me to learn quickly in my role.
I’ve also so lucky to have Josie, my line manager, guiding me through my apprenticeship. Aside from being generally wonderful and a true friend to me, she’s struck the perfect balance between giving me independence and offering her guidance when needed. She knows when to challenge me to step up and gives me the opportunity to with confidence and that’s in turn helped me build my confidence enormously.
Overall, it’s been the people I work with at Changing Chalk that make this apprenticeship such a standout experience. The team has given me not just the opportunity to learn but also a sense of belonging and purpose in the work I’m doing, I couldn’t ask for a better team to work alongside.
What are your aspirations for the future, and how will your apprenticeship help you achieve them?
If possible, I’d love to stay working with the National Trust after my apprenticeship ends! I want to build a career that continues to connect people with the outdoors and helps protect the places I love, and my role has given me such a strong foundation for that. I’ve gained hands-on experience in community engagement, practical countryside skills, and project planning - all skills of which I know will be invaluable to me moving forward.
Most importantly, this apprenticeship has shown me the power of working with others to create positive change. I’ve seen firsthand how much we can achieve when working together, and I hope to carry that spirit and confidence into whatever I do next.
What advice would you give to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
If you’re even thinking about it, go for it! An apprenticeship is an incredible opportunity to earn, learn, and grow, but for me, this apprenticeship has been about more than just gaining skills—it’s been about working in places I love with people who inspire me.
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, or to go into something completely new to you—every challenge is a chance to grow, and you’ll always have support along the way. If your passionate about what you want to pursue with an apprenticeship, you have everything that you need to go for it already.
Doing an apprenticeship with Changing Chalk and the National Trust has been an overwhelmingly positive journey. The experience has made a lasting impression on me, I’ve made memories for a lifetime and have found a direction that I want to follow for the rest of my career.
