Apprentice Horticulture Worker (Cemeteries)

The training will cover the skills and horticultural practices that are needed through the different seasons of the year and will include; tree/shrub planting, formative pruning, grass establishment and mowing, strimming, application of fertilizer and herbicides. All to current best practice and certified standards.

All the experience and training gained in this role will form a strong basis for further career development and progression in landscape garden management and environmental based roles.

More specific responsibilities include:

Work within the Environment Services Division, Cemeteries Team of Halton Borough Council undertaking horticultural and other land-based tasks Attend horticultural college at least one day per week in term time Complete a City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Practical Horticulture Skills To qualify in a number of set land based qualifications such as PA1 & PA6 – Herbicide Application and gain Lantra certification in the competent use of horticultural powered machinery including Pedestrian Controlled Petrol Driven Mowers, Handheld Brushcutters and Strimmers, and Ride-on Mowers over the two-year period Achieve certification in a number of cemetery-based qualifications including the Safe use of Excavators, Safety in the Burial Process, and Safe Use of Dumpers Assist members of the public to enjoy and appreciate Halton’s parks, open spaces and cemeteries Become familiar with and abide by the Environment Services Division work procedures document

Training:
You will undertake a two-year training period in Horticulture through a mixture of work based tasks and attendance at Myerscough College near Preston, which will result in City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Practical Horticulture Skills and ICCM accredited certificates in safety, first aid and working practices in cemetery grounds and cremations

Training Outcome:
As you approach the end of your apprenticeship, you will receive guidance and support from our dedicated Apprenticeship Officer in applying for opportunities within Halton Borough Council We are eager to ensure that any apprentice that joins us as an apprentice, is given every chance to secure permanent, long-term employment with us

Employer Description:
Halton Borough Council is the local authority responsible for the borough of Halton, a unitary authority in Cheshire, England. All our colleagues at Halton have made a positive commitment to delivering great outcomes for our communities. Whoever joins us will share that passion for outstanding service, and strongly align with the values which define our workplace culture; Working Together – building fantastic relationships with colleagues and customers. Continuous Improvement – Keeping great service delivery at the heart of everything we do. Personal Growth – Learning, growing and developing ourselves. Accountability – doing what we say we are going to do. Inspiring Leadership – positive roles models and leading by example.

Working Hours :
Monday - Friday, 8.00am - 4.00pm

Skills:
Enthusiasm for horticulture,Able to follow instructions,Basic horticulture hand tools