At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn greenkeeping skills while maintaining a historic golf course in beautiful surroundings.
- Company: Join the Osborne Golf Club, a picturesque venue with a rich history.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive wage and gain a recognised qualification.
- Other info: Potential for a permanent position after completing the apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Work outdoors, develop your skills, and enjoy a unique career in greenkeeping.
- Qualifications: A positive attitude, teamwork skills, and an interest in horticulture are essential.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Here at The Isle of Wight College, we’re proud to work alongside a wide network of dynamic employers across a variety of industries. Are you looking for an exciting outdoor career where no two days are the same? Would you like to work in one of the Isle of Wight's most historic and picturesque sporting venues while gaining a nationally recognised qualification?
Osborne Golf Club is seeking an enthusiastic Apprentice Greenkeeper to join its experienced grounds team. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn the art of greenkeeping while working towards the Level 2 Horticulture and Landscape Construction Operative Apprenticeship.
Set within the magnificent grounds of Osborne House in East Cowes, the former royal residence of Queen Victoria, Osborne Golf Club is one of the Isle of Wight's most distinctive golf courses. Golf has been played on the Osborne Estate since 1892, when the course was originally created for the Royal Family and their guests. It was first designed as a two-hole course by the 7th Duke of Richmond before being expanded to a full nine-hole course in 1904. Today, the club is recognised as the Isle of Wight's oldest golf course, offering an outstanding parkland course surrounded by protected woodland, mature trees and stunning views across the Solent.
As an apprentice, you'll gain practical experience in maintaining one of the Isle of Wight's most established golf courses, developing the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in greenkeeping.
What you’ll be doing:
- Working under the guidance of the Head Greenkeeper, you will learn how to:
- Maintain the golf course to a high playing standard.
- Operate and maintain a wide range of grounds maintenance machinery and equipment.
- Carry out daily machinery checks, including cleaning, greasing, oiling and refuelling.
- Assist with servicing and maintaining irrigation and sprinkler systems.
- Cut and maintain fine turf, rough grass, hedges and landscaped areas.
- Weed, prune and maintain trees, shrubs and ornamental planting.
- Plant and replace trees and other landscape features.
- Maintain the clubhouse surroundings, gardens, pathways, equipment stores and car park.
- Carry out general landscaping and grounds maintenance duties.
- Support the preparation of the course for daily play and competitions.
- Work safely whilst using horticultural machinery, hand tools and powered equipment.
- Learn about sustainable land management, environmental good practice and wildlife conservation.
What we’re looking for:
- We’re seeking someone who:
- Enjoys working outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Has a positive attitude and is willing to learn.
- Can work well as part of a team.
- Is reliable, punctual and hardworking.
- Has good attention to detail and takes pride in their work.
- Has an interest in horticulture, landscaping or sports turf management.
- Is prepared to work early mornings and occasional weekends as part of the team.
- A Driving Licence would be desirable.
- Basic gardening skills or any prior qualifications in Horticulture would be desirable to support your application.
Apprenticeship Standard: Level 2 Horticulture or Landscape Construction Operative Apprenticeship
24-to-30-month apprenticeship programme. Alongside your practical daily work, you’ll take part in off-the-job training hours—dedicated time within your working week to develop your knowledge, skills, and behaviours through any new/online learning and attendance at The Isle of Wight College. Weekly attendance at The Isle of Wight College from September.
Working hours: Typical working hours are: Monday to Friday: 6.30am – 3.00pm. Weekend working: Seasonal - on a rota basis (typically 6.00am – 8.00am).
Wage: £8.00 per hour to begin with. The starting wage will be reviewed regularly throughout the apprenticeship, with the opportunity for increases based on performance, commitment and progress.
Additional Information: Successful completion of the apprenticeship could lead to a permanent Greenkeeper position within the golf club. So, if this sounds like the next, or indeed first step you want to take with your career, please apply with a cover letter telling us why you feel you would be the ideal person to take on this brilliant opportunity and don’t forget to attach your latest CV!
Apprentice Greenkeeper - Osborne Golf Club in Newport employer: The Isle of Wight College
The Isle of Wight College offers a fantastic opportunity for aspiring hospitality professionals to kickstart their careers in a vibrant and supportive environment at Ventnor Botanic Garden. With a focus on employee growth through hands-on experience and a Level 2 apprenticeship, you will be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration and excellence, all while enjoying the unique microclimate of this beautiful location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Greenkeeper - Osborne Golf Club in Newport
✨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 The Isle of Wight College.
✨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 The Isle of Wight College. 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 The Isle of Wight College.
✨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 Apprentice Greenkeeper - Osborne Golf Club in Newport
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 The Isle of Wight College
✨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 The Isle of Wight College.
✨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 The Isle of Wight College. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
