Environmental Practitioner Degree; Level 6 Apprenticeship

job summary

do you want to play a part in tackling climate change, protecting ecosystems, and shaping a more sustainable future? At the environment agency, our environmental practitioner degree apprenticeship puts you at the heart of work that genuinely matters.

region: east of england, south west, yorkshire and the humber

city/town: bedford, beverley, bodmin, cambridge, exeter, leeds, sheffield, york

building/site: defra grp beverley crosskill, hu17 9jb; defra grp ea bedford depot, mk42 0le; defra grp ea ely office, cb7 4tx; defra grp ea manley house, ex2 7lq; defra grp ea quadrant two, s9 4wf; defra grp ea sir john moore house, pl31 1eb

at the environment agency, we help communities prepare for a changing climate, reduce the risks of flooding and drought, and protect coastlines from erosion. We work closely with partners, businesses and local communities to make sure the environment is cared for now and for future generations. Everything we do is grounded in evidence and driven by our commitment to create a better, greener, more resilient future for people and nature.

if you’re enthusiastic about the environment and ready to start building your career, this programme will develop your skills, confidence and real‑world capability. It’s designed for people whose highest qualification is a level (or equivalent), offering a route into professional environmental work without needing a prior degree. If you already hold an environmental or science‑based degree, you may wish to explore other entry routes on our early careers' website.

your academic study will be delivered by keele university over four or five years, through online learning, block release teaching and field trips. You’ll need to be able to travel for study periods, and some elements of the apprenticeship will involve working from home.

our teams work nationally and locally, with opportunities in exeter, bodmin, cambridge, bedford, sheffield, york, leeds and beverley. Whether in rotating or non‑rotating teams, you’ll contribute to meaningful projects. You’ll be supported by professional coaches and mentors and learn directly from experienced environmental practitioners. Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. You will be required to have an incident role and make yourself available to respond to incidents or provide business continuity support during an incident.

This may attract an additional payment. Full training and alternative working arrangements will be available to support you with your incident role.

• minimum of three a‑levels at grades bbc or equivalent, such as btec nationals, ideally in science‑based subjects or geography
• gcse maths and english at grade c/4 or equivalent
• meet the apprenticeship funding rules (link in the additional candidate pack)
• may require a full uk driving licence, or the ability to obtain one by the end of the apprenticeship (see additional candidate pack for more details)

there is no upper age limit.

applicants who already hold an environmental or science‑based degree (including geology or geography) are not eligible for funding.

we’re looking for people who:

• takes responsibility and stays organised
• balances commitments confidently
• communicates clearly with others
• works well as part of a team

as part of your application, you’ll be asked to select your preferred locations and teams. Please read the additional candidate pack attached to learn more.

we are committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. You’ll receive full training, all the kit you need, and a benefits package designed to help you thrive.

pension: around 19% contribution to a career‑average scheme invested in ethical, renewable energy businesses.

leave: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

flexibility: hybrid options, flexible hours, and time back for overtime.

we use smart tools to stay connected and cut unnecessary travel, though some travel or overnight stays may be needed.

ready to shape your future?

interviews take place week commencing 20th and 27th april 2026. Apprentices start september 2026.