The project will offer one traineeship per year to a local individual, equipping them with the essential employment skills for the countryside sector, whilst helping to secure a future for Dorset’s iconic heathland heritage. 

Leo Henley-Lock, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Reserves Manager for South & East Dorset, said, “We are thrilled to be able to offer this fantastic opportunity, part funded by Magnox Ltd. The traineeship will offer accredited training and a broad range of practical experience, providing a solid first step into employment in the Countryside Conservation Industry.” 

Leo continues, “Based predominantly on Dorset Wildlife Trust’s South Dorset nature reserves at Tadnoll and Winfrith, the traineeships will help to play a crucial role in maintaining these important sites for the local people and visitors.”  

Andrew Munro, Winfrith and Harwell Site / Closure Director commented, “We are delighted to have awarded funds from our Magnox socio-economic scheme to support this worthwhile project.  With the nature reserves being so close to the Winfrith site, we are keen to follow the progress of the trainee and understand the work being performed to sustain the reserves for future generations.”  

“Magnox is committed to mitigating the impact of decommissioning on the communities in which we operate through socio-economic support. Funding is available to improve education and skills provision or support local employment, economic diversification or social infrastructure.” 

Find out more about Magnox.  

To find out more about the Heathland Heritage Traineeships and how to apply, visit the Dorset Wildlife Trust jobs page.