Applications are invited for a Modern Apprenticeship post in Estates Services, within the Grounds section of the John Anderson Campus.\n\nThe successful applicant will work as part of a skilled team to help maintain and develop the Universityâs grounds and gardens, providing a safe, relaxing and attractive environment for staff, students, visitors and all campus users.\n\nThis role will provide hands-on experience in a wide range of grounds, landscaping and horticultural duties across the University campuses. The post will involve assisting with the maintenance of trees, shrubs, shrub beds, ornamental grass areas, indoor plants, grass cutting, footpaths, hard-standing areas, and hard and soft landscaped spaces.\n\nYou will also be trained to assist with the setting, maintenance and operation of tractors, grass-cutting machinery and horticultural equipment, ensuring equipment is used safely and correctly. Duties may also include assisting with fencing, drainage, landscaping, light handyperson duties, winter gritting operations, and supporting other sections or departments when required.\n\nAs part of the apprenticeship, you will work towards an SVQ Level 2 in Landscaping through day-release certificated coursework and work-based assessment activities in modern grounds and horticultural practices. You will be supported to develop the practical skills, knowledge and safe working practices needed for a career in grounds maintenance, landscaping or horticulture.\n\nApplicants must adhere to all health and safety requirements and attend college to complete the required apprenticeship training and qualifications.\n\nPlease note that Modern Apprenticeship eligibility criteria are defined by external funding requirements. Modern Apprentices must start the scheme before their 20th birthday. Full funding is available for apprentices aged 20â29 if they have a disability or are from a care background. During the apprenticeship, you will learn practical skills in:\n\n-Grounds maintenance\n-Landscaping and horticultural practices\n-Grass cutting and maintaining ornamental grass areas\n-Maintaining trees, shrubs, shrub beds and indoor plants\n-Maintaining footpaths, hard-standing areas and landscaped spaces\n-Using and maintaining horticultural equipment\n-Setting, maintaining and operating tractors and modern grass-cutting equipment\n-Fencing, drainage and general landscaping duties\n-Winter gritting operations\n-Safe working practices and health and safety requirements\n\nYou will also develop workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, customer care, reliability, punctuality and working independently. What do you need?\n\nYou will need qualifications at National 4 level or equivalent, or above, in English, Maths and a relevant technical subject. You should have a genuine interest in horticulture or landscaping, and be keen to learn and develop practical skills in a work-based environment.\n\nYou will also need to be reliable and punctual, with good attendance and timekeeping. You should be able to communicate well, provide good customer care, and work both on your own and as part of a team.\n\nWhat qualities would be desirable?\n\nWe would like applicants to have some knowledge of, or experience in, grounds maintenance or related practical work, although this is not essential. A clean current driving license would also be desirable.