Zoe Basham

I recently completed the Royal Parks Apprenticeship in summer 2010 and have been successful in securing full-time employment with the landscape maintenance contractor at Greenwich Park. I worked 4 days per week at Greenwich Park and spent one day attending Capel Manor College. Whilst on the scheme the work was varied and included landscaping and horticultural projects as well as maintenance work. The team at Greenwich Park is excellent and more than willing to help, and are interested in my learning. One of the great aspects of the apprenticeship is that I got paid whilst gaining vital experience. I would recommend the apprenticeship to anyone who wants to learn about all aspects of horticulture and does not mind some physical work.

Michala Haines

I was a Royal Park Apprentice from 1997 to 2000. Upon completing the apprenticeship, I stayed with Turfsoil and in May 2006, I was appointed as the Assistant Contract Manager which includes the role of assessing and mentoring the apprentices. The apprenticeship offered me a wonderful chance to work in one of the finest parks and learn many new skills. I feel privileged to have done the apprenticeship and with Turfsoil Ltd's support, it has proved to be a spring board to further my career.

Gordon Lindsay

After the first few months of being an apprentice you feel like you're really part of the team. We get involved in lots of great projects and all the staff make you feel welcome. We are given plenty of time at work to study for college and the charge hand, or supervisor, is always available to help us get our project work done and provide support with work or study. There are also lots of opportunities in The Royal Parks to get involved in various activities outside of the normal routine which keeps things interesting.

Allison McAtamney

I am part of the Enterprise team and have been working in The Royal Parks for 20 years. My role within the apprenticeship programme is as a supervisor and co-ordinator, and having once been an apprentice myself, I really enjoy the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and provide support. Seeing the apprentices develop into skilled horticulturalists is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job and I would encourage anybody who is enthusiastic and has an interest in horticulture to apply.