A major national scholarship designed to equip young people with real world environmental skills and open the door to future careers in the natural world is now open for applications.
The Field Studies Council, which has its headquarters in Shropshire, is inviting young people aged 16–25 to apply for its prestigious 2026 Young Darwin Scholarship, a programme that has supported more than 450 scholars since it launched in 2012.
Ana Forbes, from the charity, said the scholarship offered an exceptional opportunity for young people passionate about nature, science and the environment to access high-quality learning experiences with the charity at a fraction of the usual cost.
“As a scholar, you’ll join a dynamic community of like minded young people, gaining access to exclusive alumni events, ongoing support and further discounted learning opportunities. It’s more than a scholarship – it’s a gateway to a lifelong journey of discovery, inspiration and connection.”
Successful applicants can choose from a range of eligible courses and experiences, each centred around time outdoors in environmentally rich and engaging spaces.
The programme provides hands on experience in practical, transferable field skills, environmental techniques and confidence building through outdoor exploration.
Each scholarship begins with an in-person experience taking place between July and October, with separate programmes available for 16–17 year-olds and 18–25 year-olds.
Field Studies Council tutor Kelsie Cooling is living proof that the scholarship programme leads to employment opportunities in the outdoor sector.
She took part in the scholarship in 2024 and then went on to complete a traineeship with the charity before being appointed to the Epping Forest centre as tutor.
Bringing things full circle, Kelsie went on to tutor the 2025 scholars attending the ecology and conservation course in London.
She said: “Coming from a music degree and a primary teaching qualification, I struggled getting a job which allowed me to work in the outdoors, as many organisations specify the need for a science degree.
“Having the Young Darwin Scholarship network around has helped me feel supported going into my job as a trainee tutor, and now as a full-time tutor, the exclusive webinars provide me with further opportunities to develop my knowledge.”
Applications close on 27 May, and Ana encouraged interested young people to apply as soon as possible.
“Last year’s programme saw 35 scholars attend eight different locations in England, Wales and Scotland. It received a 100 per cent satisfaction rating, so we know demand will be extremely high. This is a fantastic opportunity to give yourself a real head start in forging a career in the natural world.”
Funded through grants and donations, the scholarship begins with a residential experience – or a series of day trips – at locations across the UK.
Scholars spend time outdoors developing identification and recording skills, exploring landscapes and learning directly from leading environmental specialists.
Following the residential, scholars receive ongoing support from the charity, including a selection of Wild ID guides, an allowance to put towards further learning experiences and membership of the Young Darwin Scholar alumni network.
For more information and to apply visit Young Darwin Scholarship – Field Studies Council
