Oldham College apprentices show off their skills during National Apprenticeship Week 2019.
A number of Green Keeping and Grounds Keeping apprentices were interviewed as part of a drive to encourage more young people to consider a career in the sector.
The College embarked on delivery of the horticulture apprenticeship scheme two years ago setting up a partnership with Oldham Council and it has been a huge success. As the only College across Greater Manchester to offer the scheme, numbers of both apprentices and employers have grown significantly. We deliver high quality teaching, learning and assessment to golf clubs, football clubs, grounds maintenance companies and local authorities throughout the North West.
Phil Lomas, Oldham College Tutor and Assessor for Horticulture said; “The offer is flexible, it is all work based which means learners can undertake training and assessments in the field. We are keen to hear from new and existing employers who are looking to place an apprentice as well as welcome new people into the sector. We are quickly becoming the first choice for land based Apprenticeships based on the expert staffing and flexible delivery model facilitated by Oldham College. We are able to service all Horticulture pathways at Level 2 & Level 3 including new Apprenticeship standards.”
The College is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week by focussing on individual apprentices across various sectors. The College has developed a quality, high performing apprenticeship provision. The apprenticeship offer is built around the Greater Manchester and Oldham’s skills priorities, responding to the needs of both employers and apprentices. The recent Ofsted Good grade is testament to the work and commitment to apprentices and employers.
Alun Francis, Principal and Chief Executive at Oldham College, said: “It is very good to see the various apprentices at work and hear about the skills they are developing as part of this week. We work with over 800 employers and have a very wide range of choice in apprenticeships, and we are very pleased to be able to break into Horticulture. It is a great example of how the College can partner local stakeholders to offer learning and skills and real future careers. Apprenticeships are the single most important way of changing the life chances of young people and adults seeking interesting and well paid jobs. We are committed to doing more of this kind of work in Oldham and Greater Manchester.”
To find out more about Oldham College apprentices follow the social media stories as they unfold during National Apprentice Week. For more information about our Horticulture offer speak to Phil Lomas on 07912 485436 or email: phil.lomas@oldham.ac.uk
