Gardening Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship can be a great way to start your career in horticulture. Whether your plan is to find employment or one day be self employed, an apprenticeship can help smooth that steep learning curve and give you the best start.
Victoria, an assessor at Lackham college in Wiltshire, provides this key guidance.
'How can I find out what apprenticeship's qualifications are available?
The range of apprenticeships can be found on Search / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
How do I find an employer?
Most apprenticeships are advertised through your local college or on sites such as INDEED.com etc . Alternatively search locally for a company you would like to work for or approach someone whose workmanship you admire and respect. Not all companies realise that the apprenticeship exists. The apprenticeship holds endless benefits for employers. Use the link to search for vacancies https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
How long is the qualification?
Most of the apprenticeships run over 24 months - that is maximum duration if you speak to your local training provider, they will be to advise you on their flexibility and their delivery of the program.
What are the benefits of becoming an apprentice?
- Paid to learn.
- Practical experience as you learn that is relevant to industry standards.
- An introduction to industry.
- An opportunity to learn from craftspeople.
- Transferrable skills
- Support and guidance on progression and career pathways
What advice would you give for choosing a training provider?
- Go to open days
- look at the campus and the resources
- Ask lots of questions- talk to academic staff .
- Assess how the training provider communicates with you,
- Look at reviews and blogs on the training provider
- do they have an Alumni?
What advice would you give for choosing an employer?
- Ensure they are committed to your training.
- Negotiate your pay. Not all apprentices receive minimum wage some employers will award on an individual basis.
- Ask for a trial day, see if you like the scope of work and the people you will be working in a team with.
- Research the company, look at reviews, look at their website.
- Ask your training provider for recommendations.
- Contact Associations and ask for advice.'
Starting a Gardening Business
Plants are important. If there were no plants then there would be no life. Make gardening your career. Read our short guide on How to start a career in garden maintenance.
