Current Vacancies
We are delighted that you are considering joining our passionate and committed team, working towards a common goal of protecting and restoring our designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for everyone to enjoy. Discover our current job and volunteering opportunities below, and join us in the rewarding journey of safeguarding the Kent Downs and ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.
Joint Advisory Committee Chair
The Kent Downs National Landscape and aspiring UNESCO Cross Channel Global Geopark is seeking to appoint a new independent Chair for our Joint Advisory Committee.
This high profile role needs to work closely with the Joint Advisory Committee, Director and Team to contribute an important role in the advocacy, influence, support and strategic direction for the Kent Downs National Landscape internationally, nationally, regionally and locally.
The Kent Downs National Landscape partnership is at a very exciting stage in its journey; we are hoping to submit an application to become a cross border UNESCO Global Geopark in partnership with the Parc Natural Regional des Caps et Marias d’Opale in November 2025; the Kent Downs team is taking a leadership role in the sub national Big Chalk programme; we have several new projects and partnerships commencing – including Putting Downs Routes, which seeks to overcome barriers to access and enjoyment of the landscape; we are also about to commence the statutory National Landscape Management Plan review which is set in a new national context for Protected Landscapes.
A committed, enthusiastic and informed individual will need outstanding qualities and a passion for the Kent Downs landscape. The time requirement is estimated to be about 2 days per month including chairing at least two Joint Advisory Committee meetings a year. This is an unsalaried position but with an annual allowance plus expenses. The current annual allowance £3,000 but this will be reviewed in the hand over period for the new Chair. The intended outcome of this review is that the opportunity to be our Chair is open to anyone who wishes, not only those that can afford to.
We are committed to building a Team and Partnership which reflects the diversity of the county’s residents, encouraging applications from people of all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, faiths and those with caring responsibilities. We aspire to be inclusive, a partnership where everyone can be themselves at work. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across our service. If you identify as a person of colour and/or are disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.
Recruitment Process
To apply please send a CV and application letter explaining your motivation for taking on this role and your fit with the person specification. All applications will be anonymised before a short-listing process takes place. Further details of the role are in the Joint Advisory Committee Chair Recruitment Pack.
Applications close at midday on the 30th of September 2024 and should be submitted to mail@kentdowns.org.uk.
North Downs Way Ambassador
We are looking to recruit a new cohort of North Downs Way ambassadors to encourage under-represented communities into the landscape.
If you love walking, are passionate about the trail and can commit to leading periodic events we’d love for you to get in touch. You’ll be a friendly and welcoming face along the trail, encouraging new users to the landscape to help build their confidence and knowledge about walking the North Downs Way and spending time in the countryside in general. You’ll learn how to lead and organise walks, and we will provide free resources to help you plan your events.
You’ll be joining an already active and effective team of over 40 North Downs Way ambassadors, who are all just as passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the landscape as you are. Just some of the amazing work from our ambassadors include:
- Boots on Adventures – self-guided walking holidays in Kent
- Wild With Wheels – accessible nature experiences in Kent
- Hikes of Surrey – walks in the Surrey Hills and along the North Downs Way.
We are particularly interested in receiving applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds and from those from under-represented communities.
Benefits:
- The role is unique to you. If you’d like to occasionally lend a helping hand at a walking festival, you can do this. Or if you’d like to set up a walking business and charge for your events, you can do that too.
- All interests and walk types are welcome. Whether you want to run female-only walks, wellbeing jaunts, long hikes for a particular community of people, geology events, you’re free to do so.
- Volunteering is great for meeting new people, learning new skills and getting out into the countryside for health and wellbeing
- FREE resources and training will be provided.
Time Commitments
The below time commitments should be used as a guide only.
X3 Online Sessions
X40 Homework Hours
X2 Trail Days
It is strongly recommended that ambassadors would spend time on the trail learning, applying their knowledge and familiarising themselves with the NDW.
Recruitment Process:
We will be recruiting ambassadors across two cohorts. The first cohort of 20 ambassadors will need to be recruited and trained by March 2025. The second cohort of 20 ambassadors will need to be recruited and trained by Autumn/ Winter 2025.
To apply to be an ambassador in our first cohort, complete this expression of interest form by Friday 8th November 2024.
If your application is successful, a member of the North Downs Way team will then be in touch regarding next steps and training sessions.
French-English Language Volunteer Interpreter
for the aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark
The Cross-Channel Geopark is a collaboration between the Kent Downs National Landscape and the Parc Naturel Regional des Caps et Marais d’Opale in celebration of our shared geodiversity. The ambition is to gain UNESCO status as the world’s first cross-border Geopark united by sea with an application to UNESCO in 2025.
As a truly cross-border, united area, the Cross-Channel Geopark hosts a side variety of events, education activities, training opportunities and community engagement on both sides of the channel.
Our two languages can be a barrier for some to participate, and the Cross-Channel Geopark is seeking passionate and skilled French-English Language Volunteer Interpreters to join our team. This role is ideal for bilingual individuals who are enthusiastic about geology, nature, and cultural heritage, and who wish to use their language skills to enhance the educational and outreach efforts of the geopark. Volunteer Interpreters will play a vital role in providing informative and engaging interpretations for both French and English-speaking visitors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Bilingual educational tours and talks: Accompany guided tours and educational talks for French and English-speaking audiences, including school groups, families, and international visitors. Share knowledge about the geology, biodiversity, and cultural history of the geopark in both languages.
- Visitor engagement: Interact with visitors at information centres and designated sites within the geopark, providing assistance and insights in both French and English to enrich their visit.
- Interpretive programs: Assist in the development and delivery of bilingual interpretive programs, such as workshops, hands-on activities, and interactive displays.
- Event support: Participate in special events and festivals organised by the geopark, engaging with the public in both French and English.
- Resource management: Assist in the creation and maintenance of bilingual interpretive materials, including brochures, maps, and educational resources.
Skills and attributes:
- Bilingual proficiency: Fluent in both French and English, with excellent verbal communication skills in both languages.
- Passion for nature and heritage: A strong interest in geology, ecology, history, or related fields. Enthusiasm for sharing knowledge with others.
- Interpersonal skills: Friendly and approachable, with the ability to connect with a diverse range of visitors.
- Team player: Willingness to work collaboratively with staff, other volunteers, and community partners.
- Flexibility: Ability to adapt to different situations and work environments, including outdoor settings and varying weather conditions.
Benefits:
- Personal development: Gain valuable experience in public speaking, bilingual education, and customer service.
- Training: Receive training on the geology, ecology, and cultural history of the geopark.
- Networking: Connect with like-minded individuals, experts, and professionals in the fields of geology, conservation, and heritage.
- Community contribution: Make a meaningful impact by helping to educate the public and promote the conservation of the geopark’s natural and cultural resources.
Commitment:
- Time requirement: Demand is likely to be ad hoc and flexible scheduling is available to accommodate different availabilities. There is no minimum time commitment. For language students wishing to gain translation/interpreting experience, internships or work experience placements are available.
- Ability to travel between UK and France: a valid passport will be required.
- Training sessions: Attendance at initial training sessions and periodic workshops is required to stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.
- Location: Our events and activities take place at a variety of locations across the Kent Downs National Landscape and Parc Naturel Regional des Caps et Marais d’Opale. Travel expenses, including via Eurotunnel, will be paid by the Cross Channel Geopark.
Application Process:
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by submitting a CV along with a brief statement of interest and any relevant experience to Isabel.Shaw@kentdowns.org.uk.
Heritage Ponds Volunteer
Dive into the depths of history – uncover the secrets of our murky ponds!
Are you an explorer at heart, enthralled by local lore and ancient maps? Do you have a thirst for uncovering the mysteries that lurk beneath the surface of our landscapes?
We’re seeking intrepid volunteer citizen scientists to join our Heritage Ponds project, mapping the hidden ponds that dot the Kent Downs National Landscape. By scouring centuries-old maps and comparing them to modern-day ones through the Kent LiDAR Portal, you’ll help us unearth long-forgotten ‘ghost ponds’ – relics of a bygone era, waiting to be rediscovered. Your invaluable contribution will pave the way for future restoration efforts, breathing new life into these overlooked aquatic havens.
No prior experience is required! We’ll provide all the training you need. All you need is a computer, an internet connection, and a passion for conservation.
This desk-based role is perfect for adventurers of all abilities, offering a unique opportunity to unravel the secrets of our natural heritage from the comfort of your home. There’s no minimum number of hours required – contribute as much or as little as your schedule allows.
Embark on this exciting quest and join our ranks! Email heritageponds@kentdowns.org.uk to sign up today.
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