Myerscough landscaping apprentice paves his way to WorldSkills UK gold

Archie Matthews was crowned champion in landscaping after competing alongside the other finalists from across the country to be crowned the UK’s best young landscaper.

The finalists, who also included fellow Myerscough apprentices Jonathan Stout and Kieran Ashby, had to build a fully landscaped garden to a set specification, incorporating a number of features, paving, decking, and other elements, including designing a plan for the project, which they then had 16.5 hours to complete over three days of the final.

Archie lined-up alongside the best learners and apprentices from across the UK in the National Finals at Bridgend College – Pencoed Campus in South Wales.

Archie has been on a Level 2 Horticulture Operative Apprenticeship Standard (APL) programme, making the final after he demonstrated technical skills in aspects such as block paving, decking construction and plant knowledge in a national qualifier earlier this year, held at Myerscough College’s main Bilsborrow campus.

The competition is run in partnership with the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) – an accrediting body for the best in domestic landscaping – and supported by leading companies.

More than 400 finalists competed across over 40 different skill categories, from digital technologies, advanced manufacturing and engineering to hospitality, creative arts and health science.  Over two days of intense competition, the finalists demonstrated world-class technical skills, creativity and professionalism, all qualities highly valued by employers.

Archie said: ‘’Keep trying, learning, developing and your dreams will come true. This is only the start of my journey.

‘’A massive thank you to Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) and Myerscough College for this fantastic opportunity and to all others that have supported me along my journey.’’

‘’Also thank you to all those that believed in me at home and work.’’

Earlier this year Archie, from Weston-Super-Mare, became a Landscape Assistant at West Hill Garden & Landscaping, after previously serving his apprenticeship at Batello Garden Design and Landscaping

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “These exceptional young people showcase the very best of UK talent and represent the future of our economy, and I would like to congratulate them all on their outstanding achievements.

‘’This government will continue to back young people to succeed in skilled work. We will introduce V levels, reintroduce maintenance grants and reform apprenticeship funding to prioritise young people, delivering on the Prime Minister’s target for two-thirds of young people to participate in a gold standard apprenticeship or be heading to university by the age of 25.

‘’Our reforms will unlock opportunity for our young people and create growth for our country – driving national renewal.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “Congratulations to all those who participated in the WorldSkills UK national competitions. 

‘’They have demonstrated their skills at the highest level and these exceptional young people represent the future of our economy.  They are the new generation of highflyers that will give UK employers a competitive edge. 

‘’Our competitions, based on global standards, play a vital role in developing the skills that will drive investment, create jobs, and fuel economic growth.”

Congratulations Archie, from everybody here at Myerscough College and University Centre, we’re very proud of your achievements and wish you all the very best in your future career.

Read more:

Myerscough horticulture learner wins national Student of the Year award

Myerscough landscape apprentices pave their way to 2025 Worldskills final