At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and care for Stoke-on-Trent's beautiful parks while engaging with the community.
- Company: Join Stoke-on-Trent City Council, a proud organisation dedicated to improving local services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills in horticulture.
- Qualifications: Level 1 Maths or English; enthusiasm and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 10.85 - 10.85 £ per hour.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Directorate Housing, Regeneration and Operations Section Environmental Services Location Weighbridge Site Lodge Grade Apprenticeship Salary Under 21: National Minimum Wage £10.85 per hour 21 and over: Year 1 – National Minimum Wage £10.85 per hour Year 2 – National Living Wage £12.71 per hour Hours 37 hours per week This advert is open to both internal and external applicants.
About us
We are a city of strengths, with a proud heritage and bright future. Working for Stoke-on-Trent City Council is more than just a job, it's about making, protecting and improving the services for the local population, reducing inequalities and improving independence for the people who live and work in the city. We are always looking for people of the highest calibre with skills, knowledge and experience to help us deliver our compelling vision. Our diverse and talented workforce of around 4,600 employees is essential to delivering our ambitions and vision for our organisation and Stoke-on-Trent.
The Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Environmental Services department at Stoke on Trent City Council as a Park Apprentice where you will care and maintain Stoke on Trent’s Heritage Parks and assist the park’s team to deliver high-quality grounds maintenance. Level 2 Horticulture or Landscape Construction Operative (typical 24-month apprenticeship)
Key Responsibilities
- Support the maintenance, cleanliness and presentation of local parks
- Grass cutting, hedge trimming, weeding, litter collection and general upkeep using a range of tools and equipment
- Engage with the public providing information about the parks and promote their responsible use
- Support community events, completing basic administrative tasks and work closely with the wider Parks Team
- Complete the apprenticeship alongside training, coursework and a work-based portfolio
About You
- Have a minimum of Level 1 Maths or English
- Able to communicate effectively both written and verbally
- Be enthusiastic
- Able to work as part of a team
What we offer
- A competitive salary based on your skills, experience and talent
- Hybrid and flexible working options
- An excellent local authority benefits pension scheme
- Professional development through learning opportunities, regular training sessions and apprenticeship and management schemes
Pre-Employment Checks
- Right to Work in the UK
- Proof of address
- Satisfactory references
- Occupational Health Clearance
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Stoke-on-Trent City Council, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our community, and we want our workforce to reflect that. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We understand that some people may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet every listed requirement. If this role interests you and you think you could be a good fit, we encourage you to apply. We are proud of what makes each of us unique and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels included, can be themselves and succeed together.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Park Apprentice
✨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 WMJobs.
✨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 WMJobs. 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 WMJobs.
✨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 Park Apprentice
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 WMJobs
✨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 WMJobs.
✨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 WMJobs. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
