From Apprentice to Ranger: Daniel’s journey protecting Eastleigh’s countryside
A former Countryside Ranger Apprentice is now playing a key role in protecting and enhancing some of Eastleigh Borough’s most valuable natural spaces.
Daniel Warren began working for Eastleigh Borough Council in 2023 as a Countryside Ranger Apprentice. After successfully completing his apprenticeship, he was offered a permanent role as a fully qualified Countryside Ranger, a milestone he describes as a proud and rewarding achievement.
A typical day for Daniel starts with careful planning. Tools and materials are selected for the day’s work before the team heads out to one of the many countryside sites managed across the Borough. Once on site, health and safety checks are carried out before work begins. Tasks vary widely and can include habitat management to boost biodiversity, as well as public access and infrastructure projects such as repairing bridges, boardwalks and fencing.
One of the most exciting projects currently underway focuses on improving habitats along a chalk stream to support the rare Southern Blue Damselfly. By carefully clearing sun-blocking trees, the team encourages the growth of aquatic vegetation within the stream. This vegetation is vital for the damselfly, which lays its eggs beneath plant leaves. Increasing sunlight helps the plants thrive, in turn supporting larger populations of this protected species.
Reflecting on his time as an apprentice, Daniel recalls one project in particular that stands out, constructing brand-new boardwalks at Hocombe Mead in Chandler’s Ford.
“It was the first time I’d ever built boardwalks,” he said. “With guidance from my supervisor, I learnt so much, and despite the knee-deep mud, it was great fun and incredibly rewarding.”
Daniel chose the apprenticeship route to gain practical, hands-on skills that aren’t always available through more academic pathways. He says choosing Eastleigh Borough Council was an easy decision, praising both the supportive working environment and the welcoming nature of the team. Coming straight from college, he found the transition into work a big change, but one that helped him grow both professionally and personally.
Daniel’s apprenticeship and subsequent career development were supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which aims to improve life chances, support skills development and strengthen local communities. The funding has helped provide practical training opportunities, enabling apprentices like Daniel to gain hands-on experience while contributing directly to the protection and enhancement of Eastleigh’s natural environment.
