Matthew

He is completing a Level 2 Horticulture/Landscape Operative apprenticeship at the College with property services provider Countrywide.

For Matthew, an apprenticeship felt like a good way to get started in a job he enjoys.

“It helps me get a qualification in a job I’m interested in. I don’t have to pay any fees and I’m working at the same time, which really works for me.”

Matthew started his apprenticeship a few months ago and is already receiving hands-on experience in horticulture. His work includes planting shrubs and learning more about different plants, as well as understanding how jobs are carried out on-site. His apprenticeship will last two years.

“I’ve only just started, so I’m still learning the basics. I like that I’m straight into the job. We work in different places, which keeps it interesting.”

One of the things Matthew enjoys most is learning about plants and seeing how that knowledge links directly to the work he does.

“I’m learning new things about plants all the time, things I didn’t know before. At the moment, I’m just taking it all in.”

Before starting his apprenticeship, Matthew secured a job with his employer and was then supported to move onto an apprenticeship linked with the College.

Since starting his learning in college, Matthew has noticed a change in how confident he feels at work and how much more aware he is on-site.

“I notice things now that I wouldn’t have noticed before if it wasn’t for the college. My tutors are brilliant. If I’m struggling, they really help me out.”

Matthew’s tutor, Nick Atkinson, says Matthew has settled into his apprenticeship well and is making steady progress.

“Matthew is doing really well. He’s respectful, gets on with his work and employer feedback has been very positive. His confidence is growing.”

Looking ahead, Matthew wants to continue building his experience and progress within the business.

“I want to move up in the business and have a solid place there. The apprenticeship will help me to do this and get qualified.”

One highlight for Matthew so far was working on a planting project at Alexandra Park, which stood out because of the outdoor learning environment.

“I loved it. I enjoy being outside and find it better than being in a classroom.”

When asked what advice he would give to someone thinking about an apprenticeship, Matthew was clear.

“Yeah, do it. Definitely.”

Find out more

If you want to earn while you learn and build skills for the future, an apprenticeship could be the right step. Apprenticeships combine practical experience with college learning and can lead to long-term career opportunities.

Explore our horticulture apprenticeship.