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- Tasks: Join us as a Grounds Maintenance Apprentice, working outdoors and learning essential horticulture skills.
- Company: Landscape Services is part of CSG, the UK's largest local authority-owned trading company.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, health training, and support towards a recognised qualification.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while gaining hands-on experience in a rewarding sector.
- Qualifications: A genuine interest in horticulture and a willingness to learn; driving licence preferred but not essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours with occasional weekend work; supportive mentors to guide your career journey.
Location:Maidstone
Salary/package: £17,715.58
Contract type: Fixed Term – 2 Years
Hours: Full time
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and committed Grounds Maintenance Apprentice to join the Landscape Services team. If you enjoy working outdoors, are eager to learn, and want to build a career in horticulture and landscaping, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
Whether you’re just starting out or changing direction, this apprenticeship will give you practical skills, industry knowledge, and the support of experienced mentors to help you grow in a vital and rewarding sector.
Who we are
Landscape Services is part of Commercial Services Group (CSG)—the UK’s largest local authority-owned trading company (LATCO). With over 1,800 employees across 86 countries, CSG delivers services in HR, energy, IT, procurement, and more. Landscape Services operates within the Community Services division, providing grounds maintenance and soft landscaping services to schools, councils, parishes, and commercial clients.
Why this role matters
As a Grounds Maintenance Apprentice, you’ll contribute to the upkeep of important public and private green spaces—from school playing fields to open community areas. Your work helps create safe, attractive, and environmentally sustainable outdoor spaces that benefit local communities.
You’ll assist in a variety of tasks including mowing, hedge trimming, planting, weed control, and more—while learning how to safely operate specialist equipment and follow health and safety best practices. Alongside your day-to-day work, you’ll receive training and study towards a recognised NVQ or equivalent qualification.
This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to start a meaningful, hands-on career in horticulture and environmental services.
What you’ll be doing
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Carry out general grounds maintenance tasks (e.g. mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, weeding) under the guidance of experienced staff
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Maintain and check tools, machinery, and equipment to ensure safe operation
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Assist in delivering high-quality services to meet contract specifications and customer expectations
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Record daily site activities using company systems and contribute to service reporting
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Work across multiple sites such as schools, parks, and open spaces
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Participate in relevant college-based or onsite training to support your apprenticeship
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Follow health and safety protocols and report any issues to your mentor or supervisor
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Balance your time between practical work and theoretical learning requirements
What we’re looking for
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A genuine interest in grounds maintenance, horticulture, or landscaping
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Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
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Eagerness to learn new skills and apply them on the job
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A proactive and safety-conscious mindset
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Good communication skills and a positive attitude towards teamworking
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Flexibility with occasional weekend work on a rota
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A clean provisional driving licence (preferred, not essential)
What you’ll get in return
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25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
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A structured development pathway and support towards a recognised qualification
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Health and safety training and industry-recognised certification
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Practical experience with a wide range of horticultural equipment
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A supportive working environment with experienced mentors
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The opportunity to make a visible difference in your community
Health, Safety & Wellbeing Considerations
This role involves:
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Outdoor work in varying weather
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Manual handling and use of tools/equipment
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Working across multiple locations
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Exposure to noise, machinery, and plant materials
Why CSG?
With over £800 million in annual revenue and a strong social value mission, CSG reinvests in its people, communities, and services. We provide career development, environmental impact, and the chance to be part of a growing organisation that genuinely cares.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and will support you with any adjustments needed during the recruitment process. Please let us know how we can help.
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Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice employer: Lumina Energy
Contact Detail:
Lumina Energy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Show your enthusiasm for outdoor work during any conversations or interviews. Mention specific experiences you’ve had in gardening, landscaping, or even just enjoying nature, as this will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with common horticultural practices and tools. Being able to discuss basic techniques like mowing, hedge trimming, and planting will show that you’re proactive and ready to learn on the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former apprentices in the field. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even offer tips on how to stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours, including weekends. Showing that you’re willing to adapt to the needs of the job will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don't have direct experience in grounds maintenance, think about any related activities you've done, such as gardening or outdoor work. Mention these experiences in your CV and cover letter to demonstrate your interest and commitment.
Show Enthusiasm for Learning: Express your eagerness to learn and grow within the horticulture and landscaping field. Use specific examples of how you've pursued knowledge or skills in the past, whether through formal education or personal projects.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored specifically for this apprenticeship. Use keywords from the job description and align your skills with what the company is looking for, such as teamwork, communication, and a proactive attitude.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lumina Energy
✨Show Your Passion for the Outdoors
Make sure to express your genuine interest in grounds maintenance and horticulture during the interview. Share any personal experiences or projects that demonstrate your enthusiasm for working outdoors and caring for green spaces.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
Emphasise your eagerness to learn new skills and apply them on the job. Mention any relevant training or courses you’ve taken, and be prepared to discuss how you plan to grow in this role.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to talk about your experience in team settings. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past and how you can contribute positively to the Landscape Services team.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the position and helps you understand more about the apprenticeship, the team, and the company culture.
