Youth Rangers

Group of young people clearing dock and brambles from the orchard

Jennie Denton

Are you aged 13-17 and interested in making a difference for nature and wildlife? Do you want to gain skills and experience in nature conservation and volunteer alongside like-minded people?

Youth Rangers is for you!

What's it all about?

Youth Rangers is an opportunity for young volunteers to meet regularly, learn wildlife skills and join in with practical conservation tasks such as scrub clearance, surveying and habitat creation.

Who can join?

Youth Rangers is specifically aimed at young people aged 13-17. If you join the group and then turn 18 whilst a member, there will be opportunities for those interested to grow into a volunteer youth leader role to help assist with running with the group.

Don't worry if you have never done anything like this before! You don't need any previous experience.

When?

12:30pm-4:30pm on the third Saturday each month (exact dates will be advertised on www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/events)

Where?

Robinswood Hill in Gloucester

Please note places are free but booking is essential. Dates and booking will be available on www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/events. Please only book sessions which you can definitely attend.

FAQ

Click below to see the answers to frequently asked questions!

Why should I volunteer?

Have fun and be part of a team that makes a real difference
Help protect your local environment in a hands-on way
Learn more about wildlife and what's living in your local parks
Gain valuable experience in many areas that will help you with your future career/learning paths and your personal development
Feel more connected to nature
To gain volunteering experience for your Duke of Edinburgh award

Can I volunteer for Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust for my Duke of Edinburgh award?

Yes you can! Each session is 4 hours long, so you will need to attend at least the following number of sessions to complete the minimum time required for your award.

Bronze = 3 full sessions (equates to 12hours over 3 months)*

Silver = 6 full sessions (equates to 24hours over 6 months)*

Gold = 12 full sessions (equates to 48 hours over 12 months)*

*these numbers are for the minimum volunteering hours at all level of Duke of Edinburgh.

How much time do I need to commit?

There is no time commitment, however we would encourage you to come as often as you can. Spaces in the group are limited and will need to be booked through our events page so we ask that you make the most of it

If you are coming to Youth Rangers as part of your Duke of Edinburgh award voluntary section, you will need to speak to your school about the time requirement.

Do I need experience?

No specialist skills or experience are needed. All you need is:

Interest and enthusiasm for nature
Willingness to work outside in all weathers
Ability to get on with others and work as part of a team
A reasonable level of fitness

Do I need any special kit or clothing to volunteer?

No!

You will need at least; a waterproof coat (in case it rains!) and some sensible shoes (study trainers you don't mind getting muddy are fine, wellies or walking boots are ideal)

But be aware that these sessions will run whatever the weather**. So make sure you're dressed appropriately including a jumper if it's cold and a hat if it's sunny!

**if the weather poses a high level of risk to the group, the session will usually be adapted rather than cancelled.