APL apprenticeships set the standard with third intake

The exciting partnership focusing on landscaping apprenticeships sees Myerscough College join forces with the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), to train some of the best new talent in the industry, bringing together high standards, apprenticeship expertise and training excellence under one roof. The programme also exposes the apprentices to the latest products, tools, equipment and practice, to fully prepare them for a career in the profession in line with both current and future industry needs.

The APL apprenticeship has been a huge success since its inception in 2015, with the current group being the third batch to go through the programme, and attracts employers from across the country who are keen to capitalise on such specialist and high quality training.

The aim of the scheme is to produce the next generation of landscaping professionals with the skills and competences to thrive within the workplace.

Phil Tremayne, General Manager at the APL, said: ‘’The APL Apprenticeship Programme has defined the standards to be met and shaken up the delivery model moving away from day release to intensive five day training Bootcamps focusing on technical skills, personal responsibility and team working and a dose of inspiration.”

Josh is from Wildroof Landscapes, and said: “It was a great week and I’m looking forward to the rest of the programme. It’s fantastic to be able to mix with other apprentices and to be able to share our ideas.”

Georgina, from Bespoke Outdoor, pictured with Myerscough College tutor James Fare, said: “I have really enjoyed the first Boot Camp and am looking forward to gaining new skills and putting these into practice at work.

‘’I hope I can inspire other young females to consider careers in landscaping.''

Lee Price, Employer Services Manager at Myerscough College said: “With the support of the APL and the Landscape Skills Academy the learning journey for the new apprentices is an exciting one.

‘’This is another example of how we are working closely with industry to deliver an apprenticeship that delivers exactly what is required for individuals to flourish and develop. I wish all the latest apprentices the best of luck on their adventure.”

The Landscape Skills Academy was set up by RHS award winner, and College Fellow, Jody Lidgard, who said: ‘’I’ve been in the industry for more than two decades and have a passion for sharing knowledge, which has led to the setting up of the Landscape Skills Academy.

‘’There’s a gap in the market where colleges and educational establishments have been slow to fill and so these programmes will be focusing on various aspects of the industry based on the World Skills ethos of training to excellence.

‘’The focus is definitely ‘hands on’, underpinned with theory work. The aim is to produce our first generation of Landscape specialists and strive to evolve from a generalist approach to the industry.

‘’With the combination of professional delivery and course management from Myerscough College, working closely with our industry based team. We are forging the first cohort of landscape construction learners who will not only be ‘work ready’, but more importantly have the skills to propel their companies forward into an increasingly buoyant market place.’’