Horticulture Apprentice

This apprenticeship opportunity is working for Houghton Regis Town Council, working within the Council’s Grounds Team and alongside the Community Gardener, developing the practical knowledge, skills and behaviours to deliver high standards across Houghton Hall Park, sports and recreation grounds, open spaces, play areas, the cemetery and burial ground, community gardens and Council buildings.

Key Areas of Responsibility;
Undertake practical horticultural and grounds maintenance work under appropriate instruction, supervision and training, develop competence in the safe use of relevant tools, machinery and equipment, help keep Council grounds, facilities and public spaces clean, safe, attractive and welcoming, complete the required off-the-job training, portfolio work, functional skills and assessments associated with the apprenticeship and represent the Council positively when working with residents, visitors, volunteers, schools, community groups and partner organisations.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities;
Health, Safety, Administration and Compliance
Follow the Council’s Health and Safety at Work Policy, safe systems of work, training, instructions and relevant risk assessments.
Use personal protective equipment and uniform supplied by the Council, keeping them in a serviceable condition.
Report hazards, accidents, near misses, safeguarding concerns, defects and damage to buildings, machinery or equipment promptly.
Work within the limits of training and competence, seeking guidance whenever unsure.
Maintain accurate apprenticeship, training and work records as required.

Houghton Hall Park and Community Horticulture;
Work alongside the Community Gardener to maintain the formal gardens, community kitchen garden and other planted areas to a high standard.
Assist with planting, sowing, propagation, watering, feeding, weeding, edging, mulching, pruning and seasonal horticultural work.
Help grow fruit, vegetables and other produce and support activities connected with the community kitchen garden.
Carry out related tasks including litter and waste collection, sweeping, power washing, strimming and seasonal clearance.
Support volunteers and community gardening activities, following safe working practices and instructions.
Engage with visitors, schools, community groups and stakeholders in a friendly, helpful and professional manner.
Assist the Council in maintaining relevant quality awards and environmental standards, including Green Flag, Anglia in Bloom and It’s Your Neighbourhood.

Grounds Maintenance and Outside Services;
Assist with mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, planting, pruning, leaf clearance and the maintenance of grassed and landscaped areas.
Help maintain sports pitches, recreation grounds, open spaces, play areas, street furniture, memorial seats and plaques, and other Council assets.
Carry out litter picking, waste collection and general cleansing duties.
Assist with routine cleaning, inspection and basic maintenance of tools, machinery and equipment, reporting defects promptly.
Assist with upkeep of the cemetery and churchyard and, when appropriately trained and supervised, support burial and interment duties, headstone installations and memorial safety work.
Support winter and severe-weather duties, including snow clearance, where required and appropriately equipped.