Grow your career outdoors
Earn, earn, and make a difference.
Who We Are & What We Stand For
We’re delighted to work with people who help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives. We’re ambitious and forward‑thinking, passionate about caring for Gateshead and its people. As a member of our team, you’ll be valued, encouraged to be creative, and have opportunities for a good work/life balance with flexi‑time, hybrid working and a full suite of employee benefits.
Work outside, learn new skills, and help shape your local green spaces
The Environment & Fleet Management team provides integrated services to maintain parks, green spaces and the Council’s vehicle fleet. This apprenticeship offers practical horticulture skills across our borough’s parks and public spaces, leading to a Level 2 Horticulture qualification and a long‑term career in horticulture.
What You’ll Get To Do
- Commit to the apprenticeship programme, completing required college and workplace learning to achieve a Level 2 Horticulture qualification.
- Carry out grass cutting with pedestrian and ride‑on equipment.
- Support grounds maintenance tasks such as planting, pruning and general upkeep.
- Operate tools and machinery safely for general labour duties.
- Maintain clean public spaces (litter picking, sweeping, bin emptying).
- Follow health and safety procedures at all times.
- Care for and maintain equipment, reporting any faults.
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Represent the organisation professionally with good customer service.
- Carry out physically demanding work safely.
- Work toward obtaining a full UK driving licence if not already completed.
What You’ll Bring
- GCSEs (Grade 49 / A*C or equivalent) in English and Maths.
- A full UK driving licence, or commitment to achieve one within 2 years.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn, with the ability to follow instructions.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to build good working relationships.
- An interest in working outdoors, particularly with trees and green spaces.
- Good organisational skills and a reliable, punctual approach to work.
- Self‑motivated and committed to your own development and learning.
What’s In It For You
- Competitive Salary reflecting your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme – a local government pension providing long‑term benefits.
- Generous Annual Leave – 28 days, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Learning & Development – access to a wide range of training and progression opportunities.
- Health & Wellbeing Support – discounted gym memberships and mental health resources.
- Cycle to Work Scheme – a tax‑efficient cycle programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme – salary‑sacrifice vehicle scheme after 12 months of service.
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice – via the VIVUP employee benefits platform.
Our Commitment to You
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to create a workplace where our people feel belonging, respect and empowerment. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
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