GROW IN THE PARKS - The Royal Parks Apprenticeship Programme
What is it?
The Royal Parks Apprenticeship Programme is an award winning three year Apprenticeship combining College-based learning and workplace training placement. As an Apprentice Gardener, you'll work and learn in one of the eight Royal Parks and get paid while you complete your education. The Programme is run by The Royal Parks in conjunction with Capel Manor College, together with The Royal Parks Landscape Maintenance Contractors. At the end of the three years, Apprentices will be well qualified, to include:
How does it work?
Apprentices are employed by one of the Landscape Maintenance Contractors (currently Fountains plc, Veolia plc, Enterprise plc and Turfsoil Ltd) in one of the eight Royal Parks. Apprentices will spend four days per week learning landscape and horticultural techniques at their assigned Park and one day per week in the classroom at Capel Manor College at Regent's Park. Apprentices are paid a starting salary of approximately £12,000-£13,000 dependent on age, skills, and experience. All training costs are covered by The Royal Parks and the contractors.
How do I apply?
Applications have now closed.
Who Should Apply?
Ideally, applicants will hold at least four GCSEs at Grade A to C, preferably in Maths, English and Science and will have an interest in horticulture and gardening. Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds and age groups but the programme is particularly suitable for school leavers or people at the beginning of their careers. Due to the way the Apprenticeship is funded, we cannot accept applications from holders of degree-level qualifications and above, nor from those who have not been a resident in the UK for a continuous three year period prior to joining the Apprenticeship Programme.
What happens at the end of my Apprenticeship?
At the end of the three years, Apprentices will be ideally placed to continue their career in the horticultural industry either in a 'hands-on' role, or by progressing to a management or supervisory post. This could be within open space management, or the landscape construction or design industries. Many past Royal Park Apprentices are now employed as Park Managers with The Royal Parks, Supervisors or Contract Managers for The Royal Park contractors and key posts within local authorities. Apprentices may be offered a job with The Royal Parks on completion of their Apprenticeship.
Still have questions? Feel free to contact the Apprentice Programme Coordinator on +44 (0)207 298 2119 or email grow@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk
