Dartmoor Future Skills Programme: A free residential experience for young people

The Dartmoor Future Skills Programme is a fully funded

residential opportunity for young people aged 16 to 17 who are interested in exploring careers in environmental conservation, land management, and the natural world.

Whether you're passionate about wildlife, enjoy spending time outdoors, or are considering a career in the environmental sector, this unique programme will help you develop practical skills, build confidence, and connect with environmental professionals.

What is Dartmoor Future Skills?

Taking place from Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October 2026 at Shallowford Farm, this free residential programme offers participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and valuable insight into careers that help protect and enhance our natural landscapes.

During the week, you will:

• Take part in practical activities including archaeology, peatland management, and wildlife surveys.

• Develop both technical and personal skills through engaging workshops and outdoor experiences.

• Meet and learn from experienced skills leaders and environmental professionals.

• Network with experts working across the environmental sector.

• Connect with other like-minded young people who share your interests.

• Gain experience in a supportive environment – no previous experience is required.

Is This Programme for You?

The Dartmoor Future Skills Programme could be the perfect opportunity if you:

• Love spending time outdoors.

• Care about protecting and improving the natural environment.

• Are curious about careers in conservation, ecology, land management, or the wider environmental sector.

• Want to build new skills, confidence, and industry connections.

Eligibility

To take part, you must:

✅ Be aged 16 to 17 at the time of the residential week.

✅ Be available to attend the entire residential programme.

✅ Have an interest in pursuing a career within the environmental sector.

Why Take Part?

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain real-world experience, learn from professionals, and explore the many career pathways available within the environmental sector. Best of all, the programme is completely free, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to participation.

Take the first step towards a future in the environmental sector.

To find out more and register your interest, click here.