At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team maintaining parks and open spaces, from grass cutting to planting.
- Company: Ribble Valley Borough Council, committed to a greener environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous leave, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Gain a Level 2 Horticulture qualification while working.
- Why this job: Perfect for outdoor lovers wanting to make a difference in their community.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for the environment.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Salary: National minimum wage for apprentices
Location: Clitheroe, Lancashire
Closing Date: Friday 24th July 2026
Salthill Depot – Clitheroe
Reference: COM956
Pay: National minimum wage for apprentices
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
You will be part of a small team responsible for carrying out general maintenance of parks, playing fields and other open spaces within the Ribble Valley to maintain high quality facilities and a pleasant environment. You will be involved in grass cutting, hedge trimming, clearing leaves and litter, setting up sports equipment, planting, pruning and seeding as well as helping with the upkeep of artificial synthetic sports pitches.
You will work towards a Level 2 Horticulture Operative Standard qualification through Myerscough College. This qualification is work based but will require occasional attendance at Myerscough College for assessments.
If you are interested in the environment and enjoy working outdoors this could be the job for you. Join us to receive a host of benefits such as favourable working hours, generous leave entitlement, occupational pension scheme and training/development opportunities.
- Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate (£8 per hour) regardless of age during the first year of the apprenticeship.
- After the first year the rates are:
- Aged 21 and above (£12.71 per hour).
- Aged 18-20 (£10.85 per hour).
- Aged under 18 (£8 per hour).
Interview date: Thursday 6th August 2026
Reasonable adjustments: For any part of the recruitment process, please email us or provide further information on your application form.
Right to close early: We reserve the right to close job vacancies before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
Ribble Valley Borough Council is an equal opportunities employer.
COM956 - Grounds Maintenance Apprentice in Clitheroe employer: Ribble Valley
Ribble Valley Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and environmental stewardship. As a Grounds Maintenance Apprentice based in Clitheroe, you'll enjoy favourable working hours, generous leave entitlement, and opportunities for professional development through a Level 2 Horticulture Operative Standard qualification. Join us to make a meaningful impact in maintaining our beautiful parks and open spaces while benefiting from a comprehensive occupational pension scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land COM956 - Grounds Maintenance Apprentice in Clitheroe
✨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 Ribble Valley.
✨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 Ribble Valley. 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 Ribble Valley.
✨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 COM956 - Grounds Maintenance Apprentice in Clitheroe
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 Ribble Valley
✨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 Ribble Valley.
✨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 Ribble Valley. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
