Careerships - Frequently Asked Questions

How much time will I spend at college, and where will this be?

You'll spend about 10 weeks each year, in one or two-week blocks, studying at Reaseheath College in Nantwich, Cheshire. The programme you will follow has been designed with the College specifically to meet the needs of our Careership programme. The rest of the year will be spent at your workplace.

What is the college like?

Reaseheath offers en-suite study bedrooms and shared living areas. Library and IT facilities are on-site, and you can also take advantage of the sports facilities (including a 9-hole golf course). You’ll mix with all the trainees in your year group, and have the opportunity to meet other students at Reaseheath in the varied social programme on offer.

The College has been on the crest of a wave since an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted inspection awarded top grade in every area – an achievement unprecedented among land based colleges.

Other accolades have quickly followed. Ofsted success was followed by an award of Beacon College status, empowering Reaseheath to demonstrate best practice to other teaching establishments. This is yet another hugely prestigious award that very few colleges manage to achieve.

Reaseheath works very closely with local, regional and national partners to meet the needs of rural industries and communities. Close links have been developed to ensure that the college offers the very best supportive training, expertise and skills for a workforce challenged by a fast changing market.

In recognition, the college has become one of the first in the north west and one of just 20 in the country to be awarded the Learning and Skills Council New Standard quality kite mark for its work with employers.

Reaseheath is also a leading member of Landex, the land based colleges’ consortium.

You can visit their website to read more at www.reaseheath.ac.uk (opens in a new window)

Will I have to pay tuition fees?

No, the National Trust will pay all your tuition fees in relation to Careership.

Will there be any other college expenses?

The National Trust will pay for your travel to and from college, plus your accommodation and also provide you with a food allowance.

When I’m not at college, where will I stay?

When training at your National Trust workplace, you'll be responsible for finding and paying for your own accommodation, although the property staff may be able to help you find something suitable. Accommodation is sometimes available at your property, but you will be expected to pay rent. You'll also have to make your own way to work and will be responsible for your own travel and living expenses.

Will I get paid?

Yes. Throughout your 3-year Careership you’ll be paid an annual salary, currently £12,000. You'll be paid by credit transfer, a month in arrears.

Will I be entitled to any holidays?

Of course. As a Trust Employee you'll receive 25 days' holiday in any full year plus public holidays as recognised by the National Trust. You'll need to agree all your holiday dates in advance with your manager and you may not take holiday during college time. On some occasions you may need to work on weekends and public holidays, and where relevant in these cases we will offer time off in lieu subject to local operational needs.

Is there a pension scheme?

The National Trust runs a Stakeholder Pension Plan which, as a National Trust employee, you may join.

Are there any other benefits?

You'll receive a staff card, which gives you a discount in our shops and restauants. We’ll also provide you with National Trust membership, which entitles you to free entry to all National Trust properties in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (plus National Trust for Scotland), to allow you to make the most of your training.

Is there a job on completion of my training?

We will actively encourage you to apply for permanent positions with the Trust during your third year. To help you with this we will provide advice and support through careers events and through the college. You will need to consider moving to different parts of the country to secure the right position, for which we will support you with relocation assistance.