Groundsperson Apprentice

Introduction

Kick-start your career with a hands-on apprenticeship at Whickham School. Working alongside our experienced Estates Team, you'll learn how to maintain and develop our extensive school grounds while gaining nationally recognised qualifications. You'll also have opportunities to develop additional skills in site and caretaking duties.

About the Employer

Whickham School is a high-performing and oversubscribed 11 to 18 secondary school in Gateshead, where students and staff thrive together. We are committed to providing an outstanding learning environment and take great pride in our school site and facilities.

Our Estates Team plays a vital role in ensuring our grounds and buildings remain safe, welcoming and well maintained. As an apprentice, you'll become part of a supportive team who are passionate about developing future talent and helping you build the skills needed for a successful career.

What You'll Do

As part of our Estates Team, no two days are the same. You'll gain experience across all aspects of grounds maintenance whilst supporting the wider operation of a busy secondary school.

You will:

• Maintain sports pitches, lawns, landscaped areas and outdoor spaces
• Learn to operate and maintain a range of horticultural machinery and equipment
• Plant, cultivate and maintain shrubs, trees, borders and flower beds
• Assist with turf management, grass cutting and seasonal grounds maintenance
• Help identify and control weeds, pests and plant diseases
• Carry out routine inspections of outdoor areas to ensure they remain safe and well presented
• Support the Estates Team with general site maintenance and caretaking duties
• Assist with setting up school events and maintaining the school environment
• Learn safe working practices, environmental management and health and safety procedures
• Work alongside experienced colleagues who will support your development throughout the apprenticeship

Training Outcome

• This apprenticeship provides an excellent foundation for a career in horticulture, grounds maintenance and estates management
• Subject to performance and business needs, there may be opportunities for permanent employment within the Estates Team
• We are committed to supporting ongoing development and would encourage successful apprentices to undertake further qualifications in estates management, caretaking and facilities management

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Analytical skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Physical fitness
• Reliable
• Punctual
• Positive
• Maintains high standards

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English - 3-9
• Essential - GCSE - Maths - 3-9

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 Friday, 8am until 4pm.

Expected Duration: 2 Years

Training Provider: CITY OF SUNDERLAND COLLEGE