Horticulture Apprentice

This apprenticeship opportunity is working for Houghton Regis Town Council, developing practical knowledge, skills and behaviours to deliver high standards across various Council grounds.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake practical horticultural and grounds maintenance work under instruction and supervision.
• Develop competence in the safe use of relevant tools, machinery, and equipment.
• Help keep Council grounds, facilities, and public spaces clean, safe, attractive, and welcoming.
• Complete required off-the-job training, portfolio work, functional skills, and assessments.
• Represent the Council positively when working with residents, visitors, volunteers, schools, community groups, and partner organisations.

Specific Duties

Health, Safety, Administration and Compliance

• Follow the Council’s Health and Safety at Work Policy, safe systems of work, training, instructions, and relevant risk assessments.
• Use personal protective equipment and uniform supplied by the Council.
• Report hazards, accidents, near misses, safeguarding concerns, defects, and damage promptly.
• Work within the limits of training and competence, seeking guidance when unsure.
• Maintain accurate apprenticeship, training, and work records.

Houghton Hall Park and Community Horticulture

• Maintain formal gardens, community kitchen garden, and other planted areas to a high standard.
• Assist with planting, sowing, propagation, watering, feeding, weeding, edging, mulching, pruning, and seasonal horticultural work.
• Help grow fruit, vegetables, and other produce, and support community kitchen garden activities.
• Carry out related tasks including litter and waste collection, sweeping, power washing, strimming, and seasonal clearance.
• Support volunteers and community gardening activities, following safe working practices.
• Engage with visitors, schools, community groups, and stakeholders in a friendly, helpful, and professional manner.
• Assist the Council in maintaining relevant quality awards and environmental standards (e.g., Green Flag).

Grounds Maintenance and Outside Services

• Assist with mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, planting, pruning, leaf clearance, and maintenance of grassed and landscaped areas.
• Help maintain sports pitches, recreation grounds, open spaces, play areas, street furniture, and other Council assets.
• Carry out litter picking, waste collection, and general cleansing duties.
• Assist with routine cleaning, inspection, and basic maintenance of tools, machinery, and equipment.
• Assist with the upkeep of the cemetery and churchyard, and support burial duties when trained and supervised.
• Support winter and severe-weather duties, including snow clearance.

Training

• Level 2 Horticulture and Landscaping Operative - Landscaping Pathway.
• Functional Skills in English and maths if required.

What happens at the end

Upon successful completion, you will become a full-time Horticulture Operative.