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- Tasks: Learn to maintain sports pitches, gardens, and woodlands while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Pinewood School, set in beautiful countryside, offers a vibrant learning environment.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with paid holidays and off-the-job training at college.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to nurturing young minds and landscapes.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in horticulture with real-world experience and professional development.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for the outdoors and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 14700 - 14700 £ per year.
This role provides the perfect start to your career in Grounds and Horticulture, learning how to maintain and support our sports pitches, gardens and woodlands. Working under the direction of our Head of Grounds you will be provided with both on-the-job training and one day per week at a local college to complete your Level 2 Horticulture & Landscape Operative Apprenticeship.
Pinewood School is set in 84 acres of rolling countryside on the border between Wiltshire and Oxfordshire, only a few miles outside of Swindon, and offers day and boarding school for over 400 boys and girls aged 3-13.
Hours Required: 37.5 hours per week all year round usually to be worked as 8 hours per day Monday to Friday 7.30am – 3.30pm to include a 30-minute unpaid lunch break. One day per week would be for off-the-job training. 5 weeks paid holiday per annum plus Bank Holidays.
Salary Scale: Dependent on age of apprentice as per government guidelines.
To apply for this role please download our application form and submit this by post or e-mail to Jo Ranstead, Director of HR before the closing date. Applications without the completed school application form will not be considered.
Deadline for applications: 8am Monday 1st June 2026
Start date: August 2026
Pinewood School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service.
Grounds Apprentice employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grounds Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its grounds! Before your interview, take a stroll around Pinewood School's beautiful campus. Familiarising yourself with the environment shows genuine interest and can help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to horticulture and grounds maintenance. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the outdoors! During your interview, share any personal experiences or projects related to gardening or landscaping. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Grounds Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a Grounds Apprentice and help you tailor your application to match our needs.
Use the Application Form: Don’t forget to download and fill out our application form! We won’t consider applications that don’t include this form, so make sure it’s completed and submitted on time. You can find it on our website!
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: In your application, let us know why you’re excited about starting a career in Grounds and Horticulture. Share any relevant experiences or interests that demonstrate your enthusiasm for working outdoors and maintaining beautiful spaces.
Double-Check Before Sending: Before you hit send or drop your application in the post, take a moment to review everything. Check for typos, ensure all sections are filled out, and confirm that you’ve included your contact details. A polished application shows us you’re serious about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Horticulture Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of horticulture and grounds maintenance. Familiarise yourself with common plants, gardening techniques, and the basics of landscape management. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Since this is an apprenticeship, it's crucial to demonstrate your eagerness to learn. Be prepared to discuss why you're excited about the opportunity to work under the Head of Grounds and how you plan to make the most of the training provided.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on or what skills are most valuable in this role. This shows that you're engaged and thinking ahead about your future in grounds and horticulture.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Working in grounds maintenance often involves collaboration. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked as part of a team. This will illustrate your ability to contribute positively to the school environment.