Grounds Maintenance Apprentice

Apprentice Grounds Maintenance Operative Purpose:

Application of pesticides once the appropriate qualification has been achieved Using machinery including mowers, strimmers and hedge-cutters Shrub pruning and hedge cutting Establishing effective working relationships with others

All employees are required to support the Council's safeguarding policy and undergo any associated training to ensure its functions are delivered having regard to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

Authority and accountability: Completion of tasks with work closely monitored by the team leader, supervisor or mentor.

Depending on the level of skill and the degree of training, the employee may complete either work or sections of the work which will then be checked by the supervisor / mentor or may work under close supervision. The level of authority and accountability will also be indicated by the employee’s position within the apprenticeship. Employees will be responsible for the quality of their own work up to their level of skill and competence and subject to supervision and instructions/guidance.

Judgement and problem-solving: Judgement is dependent on the level of skill and competence and the degree of training and will be subject to co-ordination by other workers.

Specialist knowledge and skills: Specialist knowledge and skills are obtained through on-the-job training and council-based induction training. This training complements that received off-the-job at college, which will lead to the appropriate qualification. The application of the specialist knowledge and skills will depend on the stage that the employee has reached in his/her training.

Employees will be required to follow and apply rules, regulations, guidelines, instructions and procedures pertinent to their work.

Interpersonal skills: Communication with other staff in receiving instructions and in advising of work carried out. Communication with the public may also occur. The ability to relate well at all levels will become more important as the apprenticeship progresses.

Commitment to a career in the horticultural industry and the ability to take responsibility for your own learning and development would be essential.

Due to funding criteria, we are unable to accept applications from candidates who have already achieved an equivalent level of qualification in Horticulture or who already have several years' experience in this type of work.

Training:

Required to attend Sparsholt College on a day release basis. Day to be confirmed.

Training Outcome:

A permanent position may be secured on successful completion of your apprenticeship. 

Employer Description:
With our main office based in Lyndhurst in the heart of the stunning New Forest National Park, New Forest District Council (NFDC) is an excellent place to work and thrive. We work together and with partners to provide a wide range of highly valued services to our community. We believe that all our employees make a valuable contribution to the work of the council, and encourage a trusting and open culture where each employee is supported and respected, where ideas are actively sought, and self-development promoted. 93% of our residents think the New Forest is a great place to live. It really does have it all. It combines a stunning natural environment with thriving market towns whilst also including some of the south coast’s biggest new developments. There are excellent schools and colleges as well as Bournemouth, Salisbury, and Southampton close by. The New Forest is a fascinating place that we will be delighted to introduce you to if you don’t already know it.

Working Hours :
37 hours per week Monday - Thursday 07:30 - 15:30 and Friday 07:30 - 15:00.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Team working,Physical fitness