As a UK educational charity, the Trust’s important work helps nurture a lifelong journey of learning, appreciation and respect for the countryside through a range of Outdoor Learning experiences.
These activities include developing a range of opportunities, giving young people of all backgrounds and abilities the skills and qualifications needed for a future in the outdoor sector. As part of this, the Trust supports apprentices at its working hill farm in Cumbria, Low Beckside farm.
Jon is the Francis Stone Apprentice for the Ernest Cook Trust, working at Low Beckside Farm. He had a background in farming but is especially interested in learning new nature friendly farming practices so that he can sustainably farm in Cumbria in his future career. Through his apprenticeship with the Ernest Cook Trust Jon is receiving training in both standard agricultural practices and more ecologically friendly farming practices, including hedgelaying and dry-stone walling with a strong focus on the Countryside Stewardship Scheme.
An interview with Jon Fell, the Ernest Cook Trust Apprentice
Besides providing apprenticeships, the Trust also offers scholarships and funding sources including grant schemes.