Are you passionate about shaping the future of sustainable farming and environmental stewardship in one of England’s most iconic landscapes?  The North Wessex Downs Advisor Accelerator Programme offers a unique, year-long training experience designed to deepen your expertise and knowledge and broaden your advisory skills within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape.

Gain specialist knowledge of agriculture, ecology, and sustainable land management, all tailored to the North Wessex Downs. It is a unique opportunity to connect with a wide variety of practitioners working in the area.

What will the course cover?

  • Government funding and context – CS/SFI etc
  • Relevant legislation for farmers and landowners
  • Farm systems and sustainable practices (including organic and biodynamic farming)
  • Site visits to local farms and designated wildlife areas.
  • Nature Recovery Plans, biodiversity and species recovery
  • Local habitats and species of local importance – especially calcareous grasslands and chalk streams.
  • Green finance options including Biodiversity Net Gain and Nature Based Solutions
  • River catchment issues
  • Issues around the historic environment of the North Wessex Downs,

Who is giving the training?

  • North Wessex Downs National Landscape
  • Experienced farm advisors, including FWAG and other consultants
  • Local farmers
  • Wildlife Trusts and other environmental charities, river and catchment specialists
  • Government agencies (Historic England, Natural England) , NFU, CLA
  • Green finance professionals

Who is it for?

We’re looking for candidates who are passionate about supporting farmers and the environment, who want to build their local knowledge and make a lasting impact in the North Wessex Downs.  Candidates should have a background in agricultural/land management advice or ecology/environmental sciences, or have been working in the sector, and wish to deepen their knowledge of the area.   We are looking for candidates that expect to stay in the area medium to long-term.  See map.

What is the commitment?

12 months, in person, at various locations across the North Wessex Downs.

One day per week (Mondays), with some preparation for each day and evaluation.

Additional events such as farmer group meetings, conferences, and AGMs.  May include occasional evening/weekend events.

If you’re currently employed, you will need to confirm with your employer that this can be taken as in-role training, or as leave.

FACTS training will be included – one full week required.

What does it cost?

To be assessed individually – some fully funded places.   Travel costs are not included; car sharing encouraged.  Own transport is essential for site visits across the area.

When does it start?

27th April 2026

What else does it include?

Support for FACTS training (approx. £1,500)  Oxford Farming Conference, Groundswell (£90) and LAMMA.

How do I apply?

Submit your CV and a covering letter explaining your interest and all relevant experience to Katharine Cook by 28 February 2026.  Please detail any connections to the North Wessex Downs.   Interviews to be held in March.