Location: Maidstone
Salary/package: £17,715.58
Contract type: Fixed Term – 2 Years
Hours: Full time
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and committed Grounds Maintenance Apprentice to join the Landscape Services team. If you enjoy working outdoors, are eager to learn, and want to build a career in horticulture and landscaping, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
Whether you’re just starting out or changing direction, this apprenticeship will give you practical skills, industry knowledge, and the support of experienced mentors to help you grow in a vital and rewarding sector.
Who we are
Landscape Services is part of Commercial Services Group (CSG)—the UK’s largest local authority-owned trading company (LATCO). With over 1,800 employees across 86 countries, CSG delivers services in HR, energy, IT, procurement, and more. Landscape Services operates within the Community Services division, providing grounds maintenance and soft landscaping services to schools, councils, parishes, and commercial clients.
Why this role matters
As a Grounds Maintenance Apprentice, you’ll contribute to the upkeep of important public and private green spaces—from school playing fields to open community areas. Your work helps create safe, attractive, and environmentally sustainable outdoor spaces that benefit local communities.
You’ll assist in a variety of tasks including mowing, hedge trimming, planting, weed control, and more—while learning how to safely operate specialist equipment and follow health and safety best practices. Alongside your day-to-day work, you’ll receive training and study towards a recognised NVQ or equivalent qualification.
This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to start a meaningful, hands-on career in horticulture and environmental services.
What you’ll be doing
Carry out general grounds maintenance tasks (e.g. mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, weeding) under the guidance of experienced staff
Maintain and check tools, machinery, and equipment to ensure safe operation
Assist in delivering high-quality services to meet contract specifications and customer expectations
Record daily site activities using company systems and contribute to service reporting
Work across multiple sites such as schools, parks, and open spaces
Participate in relevant college-based or onsite training to support your apprenticeship
Follow health and safety protocols and report any issues to your mentor or supervisor
Balance your time between practical work and theoretical learning requirements
What we’re looking for
A genuine interest in grounds maintenance, horticulture, or landscaping
Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Eagerness to learn new skills and apply them on the job
A proactive and safety-conscious mindset
Good communication skills and a positive attitude towards teamworking
Flexibility with occasional weekend work on a rota
A clean provisional driving licence (preferred, not essential)
What you’ll get in return
25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
A structured development pathway and support towards a recognised qualification
Health and safety training and industry-recognised certification
Practical experience with a wide range of horticultural equipment
A supportive working environment with experienced mentors
The opportunity to make a visible difference in your community
Health, Safety & Wellbeing Considerations
This role involves:
Outdoor work in varying weather
Manual handling and use of tools/equipment
Working across multiple locations
Exposure to noise, machinery, and plant materials
Why CSG?
With over £800 million in annual revenue and a strong social value mission, CSG reinvests in its people, communities, and services. We provide career development, environmental impact, and the chance to be part of a growing organisation that genuinely cares.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and will support you with any adjustments needed during the recruitment process. Please let us know how we can help