Grounds Maintenance Operative Apprentice Landscape Services · Maidstone

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

• Carry out general grounds maintenance tasks (e.g. mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, weeding) under the guidance of experienced staff

• Maintain and check tools, machinery, and equipment to ensure safe operation

• Assist in delivering high-quality services to meet contract specifications and customer expectations

• Record daily site activities using company systems and contribute to service reporting

• Work across multiple sites such as schools, parks, and open spaces

• Participate in relevant college-based or onsite training to support your apprenticeship

• Follow health and safety protocols and report any issues to your mentor or supervisor

• Balance your time between practical work and theoretical learning requirements

What we’re looking for

• A genuine interest in grounds maintenance, horticulture, or landscaping

• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions

• Eagerness to learn new skills and apply them on the job

• A proactive and safety-conscious mindset

• Good communication skills and a positive attitude towards teamworking

• Flexibility with occasional weekend work on a rota

• A clean provisional driving licence (preferred, not essential)

What you’ll get in return

• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays

• A structured development pathway and support towards a recognised qualification

• Health and safety training and industry-recognised certification

• Practical experience with a wide range of horticultural equipment

• A supportive working environment with experienced mentors

• The opportunity to make a visible difference in your community

Health, Safety & Wellbeing Considerations

This role involves:

• Outdoor work in varying weather

• Manual handling and use of tools/equipment

• Working across multiple locations

• 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.