At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in maintaining beautiful parks, gardens, and sports facilities while learning valuable skills.
- Company: Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, dedicated to creating better lives for all.
- Benefits: Earn £12.85 per hour with a chance for permanent placement after your apprenticeship.
- Other info: Flexible working locations and a supportive environment for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining hands-on experience in horticulture.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for nature and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 12.85 - 12.85 £ per hour.
Location: Various locations throughout the Council area.
1 x Post - Parks / Gardens / Green spaces
1 x post - Sports Turf / Greenkeeper
Duration: Fixed term for 2 years or for the duration of the apprenticeship and subject to successful completion of apprenticeship.
Salary: Scale 1A Point 3 £12.85 per hour, £24,796 per annum
The post holders will be required to complete either a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Horticulture (Sports Turf) or Level 2 Apprenticeship in Horticulture (Parks, Gardens and Green Spaces) subject to the specific post.
The roles will primarily be based working in either LCCC's sports pitches and golf courses or parks, gardens and cemeteries. The roles may also be required to support work in different locations.
As a member of the Parks and Amenities Unit the post holder will be required to carry out a wide range of general maintenance and horticultural duties at various locations throughout the Council area, to include:
- Golf courses
- Public parks
- Cemeteries
- Sports facilities
- Playing fields
- Landscaped areas
- Open spaces
The application form will only be available online. Applications for this post will be channelled exclusively through the Council ITRENT Web Recruitment system therefore application forms in hard copy will not be available to candidates. However, the Council will consider any requests for an application to be made in hard copy and will provide alternative arrangements where possible, for example access to a computer.
The Council is committed to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to compete fairly for jobs. If you have any special needs or requirements with regard to any stage of the recruitment process please contact the HR&OD team via email or telephone.
Closing date: Tuesday 07 Jul 2026 23:59
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page.
Groundsperson, Gardener, Greenkeeper, Gravedigger Apprentice TLNT1_NI employer: IrishJobs
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering strong, healthy communities while enhancing your career through meaningful work. With a commitment to respect, honesty, and equality, the Council offers valuable apprenticeship opportunities that combine learning and hands-on experience in beautiful parks, gardens, and sports facilities across the area. Join us to contribute to our ambitious vision and enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and community impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundsperson, Gardener, Greenkeeper, Gravedigger Apprentice TLNT1_NI
✨Get Hands-On at Local Gardens
Dive into your local horticulture scene! Volunteer at community gardens or local parks to gain practical experience and meet professionals in the field. This not only builds your skills but also expands your network, making you more visible to potential employers like IrishJobs.
✨Join Horticulture Societies
Research and join horticulture societies and clubs in your area. These groups often host workshops, events, and networking opportunities that can connect you directly with companies looking for apprentices, like IrishJobs. Plus, you'll get to learn from seasoned pros in a relaxed environment.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb Online
Create a garden blog or an Instagram account to share your horticulture journey. Post about plants you’re working with, gardening tips, or even your experiences at local events. This will not only showcase your passion but also draw attention from potential employers, including IrishJobs.
✨Apply Early and Keep It Local
Apprenticeships in horticulture can fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Make sure to check for openings on our website regularly, and consider walking into garden centres or nurseries to inquire about opportunities directly. A friendly chat can sometimes go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Groundsperson, Gardener, Greenkeeper, Gravedigger Apprentice TLNT1_NI
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, we like to see your passion for plants and the outdoors. Whether it’s a garden project or a few houseplants you’ve nurtured, include any practical experience and why it inspires you in your application. It’s all about demonstrating your love for the industry!
Highlight Your Learning Potential:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to know how eager you are to learn and grow. In your cover letter, make sure to discuss what you hope to gain from this role and how it fits into your career goals in horticulture. Show us your enthusiasm for lifelong learning!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certificates related to gardening, horticulture, or environmental studies, throw them into your application mix! These little nuggets help us see that you’ve got a solid foundation and commitment to the field, making you a more appealing candidate.
Keep It Personal and Passionate:When applying, remember to speak from the heart. Share personal stories or experiences related to horticulture that shaped your interest. We love seeing authentic passion, so let it shine through in your writing. And hey, don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at IrishJobs
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Make sure to brush up on your plant knowledge! During the interview, we might get into some technical questions about plant care, soil types, or pest management. Have some examples ready from your gardening experience or coursework that show how you’ve dealt with various horticultural challenges.
✨Bring Your Own Garden Portfolio
Since this is an apprenticeship, showcasing your passion can really set you apart. Create a small portfolio with pictures of your gardening projects, plants you've nurtured, or any relevant coursework. This hands-on evidence of your enthusiasm will definitely impress the folks at IrishJobs.
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Familiarise yourself with the tools and techniques used in horticulture. Whether it's knowing how to use a spade correctly or understanding the basics of propagation, don’t be afraid to mention any specific tools you've used in the past. This will show that you're not just book-smart but also hands-on ready for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your eagerness to learn is just as important as your current knowledge. We need to convey your motivation during the interview, so reflect on what excites you about horticulture and how you're keen to grow (pun intended!) in this role at IrishJobs. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
