As horticulture is fundamentally important to our business, in 2014 we launched our horticultural apprenticeship scheme; ‘Grow Our Own’, so that we could train and nurture employees that work in our plant area, giving them the necessary skills and knowledge to advise customers. Apprentices in horticulture lead exciting and varied working lives and are in high demand. The apprentices will be given the opportunity to attend college undertaking the RHS Level 2 Certificate in ‘practical Horticulture’ working on towards RHS Level 3 Certificate in ‘Practical Horticulture’, which are nationally recognised qualifications. The apprentices have a blended learning approach and comprehensive training which are put into practice whilst working in the Centre’s.  Also the exciting experience of being involved in the running of the Squire’s stand at RHS Hampton Court Flower Show. As your career develops within Squire’s you will have extensive continuous training. Apprenticeship frequently asked questions:

1. Why is the horticultural apprenticeship scheme important to Squire’s?

It is important for us to have employees that are knowledgeable and experienced in plants.  We want to train and nurture our employees to work in our plant areas so they have the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately advise and assist our customers.

2. Who are we looking for?

We are looking to recruit apprentices, who want a career in horticulture, have a desire to learn new skills and are prepared to put these skills into practice in the workplace. The successful candidate must be passionate and enthusiastic about plants.

3. Where will they work?

Across the 15 centres in the plant department to gain horticultural experience. All our Plant Managers have an abundance of knowledge and skills which we want our apprentices to be able to experience working with them.

4. What will our apprentices do?

We will sponsor them on RHS level 2 and 3 at Merrist Wood College, by paying their tuition fees and allowing them to attend college one day a week during their working hours. During the training, they will be transferred between the centres, working a few months in one before moving on to another. Some of the exciting things that they will do is attend Plant Area Manager meetings, Hampton Court Flower Show and assist the running of the plant centre workshops.

5. Will I get training?

In addition to the above, our ‘Grow Our Own’ Scheme contains a combination of on and off the job training with access to a wide variety of training materials including online e-learning modules, RHS Wisley training and the support from the Senior Management Team. During the training, you would be transferred between the centres, working a few months in one before moving on to another.

6. What is the rate of pay?

We pay all our ‘Grow Our Own’ apprentices the current rate for their age and not the lower apprentice national minimum wage.

7. Will I get a permanent job at the end of the scheme?

During the two-year Apprenticeship Scheme, we would look to place you in an available plant role at one of our 15 garden centres. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a successful customer focused company which is creative, fast paced, energetic and friendly giving people pleasure from plants. If you would like to apply please send your contact details and CV to careerenquiries@squiresgardencentres.co.uk.   If you would like some tips on writing a CV please visit horticruitment’s cv and cover templates.