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Young people will to come virtually face-to-face with rangers, conservationists and educators next month as part of a careers day hosted by the South Downs National Park.

The Youth Action Careers Day is being spearheaded by the Heathlands Reunited team, a lottery-funded project that aims to conserve and enhance what remains of the South Downs’ precious lowland heath, a habitat rarer than the rainforest.

Event organiser Beth Nicholls, communities outreach officer for Heathlands Reunited, said: “We’re really excited to be putting on this event and it promises to be a fun afternoon that we hope will inspire young people about how amazing a career in conservation can be!

“There are so many potential career paths for young people and it can be quite daunting knowing what you need to do to get your foot in the door.

Ranger Kate Dziubinska working with young people in the South Downs National Park

“This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from other young people who have been on that journey and hear about their experiences.”

Taking place on International Youth Day, August 12, the interactive event coincides with A-level and GCSE results when young people are considering their next options.

The free virtual event will include a webinar from 2pm to 4pm with a range of panellists, including assistant rangers, apprentice planners and other guests from partner organisations, including Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

There will also be a range of resources made available online, including selfie video testimonials from National Park, RSPB and Amphibian and Reptile Conservation staff and insightful Q&A articles with young people already working in the conservation.

Virtual careers day for young people who want to work with the South Downs National Park