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 qualification.

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
Problem solving skills
Analytical skills
Team working
Creative
Initiative
Physical fitness
Positive attitude
Willingness to learn
Reliable and punctual

Qualifications

Essential - GCSE - English - Grade 9-3 or A*-D.
Essential - GCSE - Maths - Grade 9-3 or A*-D.

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

1 Whickham School And Sports College jobs in England & Wales