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- Tasks: Join us as a Grounds Operative and learn essential skills in Greenkeeping and Arboriculture.
- Company: South Lanarkshire Council, dedicated to community growth and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 33 days annual leave, flexible working, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds; we value diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while earning recognised qualifications in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Aged 16-19, with a passion for the outdoors and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 20000 ÂŁ per year.
South Lanarkshire Council offers modern apprenticeships in Greenkeeping and Arboriculture across several specialist operational areas. The role is a fixed‑term apprenticeship of 3–4 years with 37 hours per week, based in various locations throughout South Lanarkshire. The apprenticeship combines on‑the‑job training with college‑based learning, providing you with nationally recognised qualifications and core professional skills such as communication, problem‑solving and teamwork.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Age 16–19 by 26/09/2026 (eligible up to 29 years if disabled or care‑experienced).
- Recently attended a South Lanarkshire Council secondary school or currently live in South Lanarkshire.
- Ability to work Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week.
- Open to all under‑represented groups; we welcome candidates who are disabled, care‑experienced, from minority ethnic backgrounds, or New Scots.
Application Process
- Stage 1 – Application: Complete the online application and upload a document answering five questions about your motivation, chosen discipline, suitability, communication and customer‑care skills.
- Stage 2 – Shortlisting: Applicants who complete all sections are scored by the recruitment panel.
- Stage 3 – Interview: Highest‑scoring applicants are invited for interview during the week commencing 11 May 2026.
Important: CVs are not accepted; a separate answers document must be uploaded or the application will be withdrawn.
Benefits
- Local Government Pension Scheme enrolment
- Salary Sacrifice Shared Cost AVC scheme
- Up to 33 days annual leave
- Public holiday entitlement (up to 10 days)
- Family‑friendly policies – flexible working, maternity/paternity leave, enhanced leave
- Employee Discounts (e.g., cinema)
- Support schemes – Cycle to Work, Physiotherapy, Employee Assistance Programme
Equal Opportunities
South Lanarkshire Council is an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident Scheme Employer. We guarantee interview opportunities to disabled, care‑experienced, veteran and service leaver applicants who meet the essential criteria.
About Us
South Lanarkshire Council is the unitary authority serving an area that includes rural, market and urban towns. With 16,000 employees and a budget of almost ÂŁ1bn, our vision is to create a dynamic economy where businesses, communities and residents thrive.
Job Info
- Job Identification: 4211
- Posting Date: 04/02/2026
- Closing Date: 16/04/2026 at 23:55
- Location: Various South Lanarkshire locations
- Schedule: Full time, 37 hours/week
COMM ENT 4211 G1 - Grounds Operative (Modern Apprentice) employer: South Lanarkshire Council
Contact Detail:
South Lanarkshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land COMM ENT 4211 G1 - Grounds Operative (Modern Apprentice)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role and the council! Research South Lanarkshire Council and their values. This will help you tailor your answers in the application and show that you're genuinely interested in becoming a Grounds Operative.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before the interview, rehearse your answers to common questions. Think about your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the role. We can help you with mock interviews if you need it!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. We all know teamwork makes the dream work!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, you’ll find all the resources you need to ace those five questions. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace COMM ENT 4211 G1 - Grounds Operative (Modern Apprentice)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When answering the questions, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for greenkeeping or arboriculture.
Show Your Motivation: Make sure to clearly explain why you’re interested in this apprenticeship. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the opportunity and can articulate their reasons well.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Think about your communication and teamwork skills, and provide examples of how you've used them in the past. This will help us see how you fit into our team and the role.
Follow the Application Instructions: Remember, we only accept the answers document, not CVs! Make sure you complete all sections of the online application to avoid being withdrawn from the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Lanarkshire Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Grounds Operative and what it entails. Research South Lanarkshire Council's values and their approach to greenkeeping and arboriculture. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Think about your communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, as these are key for this apprenticeship. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated these skills. This will help you stand out and show that you're ready for the challenges ahead.
✨Be Yourself
The interview is not just about your qualifications; it's also about who you are. Be authentic and let your personality shine through. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their team, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and passion for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship, training opportunities, or the team you'll be working with. This shows that you're engaged and serious about the opportunity, plus it gives you valuable insights into the role.