Neighbourhood Services Apprentice

Introduction

The postholder will undertake a structured apprenticeship programme, combining practical workplace experience with off-the-job learning to achieve the relevant qualification. The apprentice will be expected to attend training sessions, complete coursework and assessments, and demonstrate ongoing development throughout the apprenticeship.

About the Employer

Greetings from the heart of East Durham! At Peterlee Town Council, we take pride in serving the vibrant community of Peterlee, a town designed for living, rich in green spaces, and steeped in history. Our team, comprising 22 dedicated elected Councillors and over 50 passionate staff members, is committed to fostering community well-being, enhancing our beautiful landscapes, and ensuring the efficient governance of our town.

What You'll Do

• To undertake a wide range of ground and building maintenance tasks utilising craft skills including for example, soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, bed preparation and planting.
• Undertake maintenance of sports pitches and play areas as directed.
• Collect litter and empty litter bins.
• Seasonal maintenance internal and external including the planting of seasonal bedding schemes.
• Carry out arboricultural work including felling, pruning, shredding, and chipping.
• Use and undertake basic maintenance of hand tools, equipment, vehicles and plant including mowers, ride-on mowers, strimmers, leaf blowers and tractors.
• Assist with the preparation and digging out of grave sites and maintenance of cemetery grounds.
• Undertake duties in all weather conditions.
• To ensure that plant, machinery, and equipment is properly used and cared for and that basic maintenance checks are carried out. Report all faults and defects to the responsible person as soon as possible.
• Ensure that personal protective clothing and equipment is used, at all times.
• To ensure that all accidents, incidents, and vandalism details are reported to supervisory staff as soon as possible.
• To participate in training initiatives and CPD courses as requested.
• To undertake any duties commensurate with the role as reasonably requested by Managers or Team Leaders within the Neighbourhood Services Department.

Training Outcome

Potential full-time employment, upon successful completion of apprenticeship.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience
• Physical fitness

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 - Thursday, 07.30 - 15.30. Friday, 07.30 - 15.00. 30 minutes lunch break.

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Training Provider: EAST DURHAM COLLEGE