At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the maintenance of parks and open spaces while learning from experienced staff.
- Company: Join the award-winning RCT Council and kickstart your career.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, enjoy 26 days annual leave, and access in-house training.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with excellent support and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while working outdoors and gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a positive attitude and a love for the outdoors.
The predicted salary is between 14000 - 18000 € per year.
Start Your Career with an Award‑Winning Apprenticeship at RCT Council. Ready to take the first step towards a career you can be proud of? An Apprenticeship with award‑winning RCT Council is your gateway to real opportunities, meaningful development, and a future full of possibilities.
Maximise Your Potential
RCT Council is gearing up to welcome a new cohort of apprentices and you could be one of them. Our Apprenticeship Scheme offers an exciting chance to work in a vibrant, supportive environment where no two days are the same. You’ll build valuable, transferable skills, connect with people from all backgrounds, and be part of a team that genuinely makes a difference across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Who We’re Looking For
We are recruiting two Apprentice Horticultural Operatives to join our Parks and Open Spaces team. One apprentice will be based at Pentre Park, CF41 7SY, and the other at Aberdare Park, CF44 8HN. You will support the day‑to‑day maintenance of parks, sports fields, fine turf and amenity areas, learning industry best practice from experienced staff. No previous experience is required – just a positive attitude, willingness to learn and an interest in working outdoors as part of a team.
What Will You Study?
All Apprentices will be supported to complete a Level 2 Diploma in Work‑based Horticulture.
What will you be paid?
This is a Fixed Term Post for a Two‑year period, starting in September 2026. You will be paid the National Minimum Wage dependent on age:
- 21 & over £12.71
- 18 - 20 £10.85
- Under 18 £8.00
Benefits Package
- Earn, while you learn
- Tailored induction programme
- Ongoing support from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator
- Access to in‑house training
- Hybrid working
- Pension Scheme
- 26 days annual leave
- Subsidised membership fees for Leisure Centres within RCT
- Vivup discount card for businesses
Equal Opportunities
RCT Council is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all parts of the community. The Council values diversity in its workforce and is committed to ensuring that no unlawful discrimination occurs in the recruitment and selection process on the grounds of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, transgender, including those with non‑binary identities, religion or belief, or pregnancy and maternity. We offer a number of staff networks for employees including the Allies Network, a Disability and Carers Network and Perthyn our LGBTQ+ Network.
Temporary Apprentice - Horticultural (Parks) employer: Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Join RCT Council as a Temporary Apprentice in Horticulture and embark on a rewarding career path within a supportive and vibrant work environment. With access to tailored training, a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, and opportunities for personal growth, you will gain valuable skills while contributing to the maintenance of beautiful parks across Rhondda Cynon Taf. Enjoy a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, making RCT Council an excellent employer for aspiring horticulturalists.
Contact Detail:
Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Apprentice - Horticultural (Parks)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on RCT Council and their Parks and Open Spaces team. Understanding their values and projects will help you connect during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for horticulture! Whether it’s a love for plants or a desire to work outdoors, make sure to express your enthusiasm. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or family member to do a mock interview with you. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your skills and interests.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the apprenticeship and what we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary Apprentice - Horticultural (Parks)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture:Let us know why you're excited about working in horticulture! Share any experiences, even if they're just personal interests or hobbies related to plants and gardening. A genuine passion can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the role. Highlight any skills or experiences that relate to teamwork and outdoor work, as these are key for the Apprentice Horticultural Operative position. We want to see how you can contribute to our Parks and Open Spaces team!
Be Yourself:We’re looking for a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Authenticity goes a long way in helping us get to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity with RCT Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
✨Know Your Horticulture Basics
Brush up on some basic horticultural knowledge before your interview. Familiarise yourself with common plants, gardening techniques, and maintenance practices. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for the Outdoors
Make sure to express your love for working outdoors and being part of a team. Share any personal experiences or hobbies related to gardening or nature. This will help demonstrate that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about this opportunity.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Think of a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the day-to-day tasks, training opportunities, or what a typical day looks like in the Parks and Open Spaces team. This shows you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role.
✨Dress for Success
Even though it’s a horticultural position, make sure to dress smartly for your interview. Opt for clean, casual attire that reflects your professionalism. First impressions matter, and looking presentable can set a positive tone for the conversation.
