Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice

Introduction

A fantastic opportunity to work for a small local council who provide a wide range of services and facilities to residents, including the provision of first-class sporting facilities, outdoor spaces, community park and two cemeteries. You will carry out a range of horticulture and miscellaneous duties.

About the Employer

Monk Hesleden Parish Council was established in December 1894 and it serves the village of Blackhall Colliery, Blackhall Rocks, Crimdon, Hesleden, High Hesleden & Monk Hesleden.

What You'll Do

To support the Estates Manager by ensuring the effective upkeep and maintenance of all Parish Council services and facilities. This includes carrying out a wide range of horticultural, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and general duties across sports turf areas, cemeteries, and Council-owned buildings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform general horticultural duties, including planting, pruning, weeding, and turf maintenance.
• Maintain and develop Parish Council landscapes and green spaces.
• Carry out grounds maintenance across sports facilities, cemeteries, and other public spaces.
• Undertake general building and facility upkeep tasks as required.
  Safely operate a wide range of machinery, tools, and specialist equipment.
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with the Parish Council’s Health & Safety policies and other relevant regulations.

The successful candidate will be required to study for a nationally recognised diploma in Horticulture, training for which will be organised by the Council.

 

Training Outcome

• Possibility of a full-time post upon completion of apprenticeship
• You will gain satisfaction and self-confidence from knowing your abilities have been successfully assessed against an established national standard
• The professional qualifications behind the apprenticeship programme and the experience in the horticulture role will provide you with a great opportunity to progress your career with us and explore development opportunities that are available to you.
• Recruitment process will involve attendance at an assessment day.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Team working
• Initiative
• Physical fitness
• Hard working

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English - 3 or above
• Essential - GCSE - Maths - 3 or above

Course Information

Course: Horticulture or landscape construction operative (level 2)

Level: 2

Route: Agriculture, environmental and animal care

Apprenticeship Level: Intermediate

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 5.00pm, Friday, 8.30am to 4.00pm. Above are summer working hours which total 39 hours, winter working reduces to 35 hours timing to be confirmed with employer at interview.

Expected Duration: 2 Years

Training Provider: EAST DURHAM COLLEGE