Apprentice Groundsperson/gardener at The Royal

_A fantastic opportunity has come up at RGS High Wycombe School for a garden/grounds person role. The role is very varied with some work on the school gardens and sport pitches. A role not to be missed_

**Employer**

The Royal Grammar School High Wycombe

Our facilities are exceptional and the Oxbridge entry is in the vanguard of the state sector. For the last twenty years, the school has produced top class exam results, both at GCSE and A-level, surpassing many of its fee-paying competitors.

Established by Royal Charter in 1562 (though originally established as a school in 1550), it is situated on Amersham Hill, in a pleasant residential area, a short walk from the station.

**THE POST**

To be a member of the estates team and to support the estates manager with the grounds maintenance of the school. To assist the Estates Manager, under the direction of the Head Groundsperson, with planned and preventative maintenance and to support the running of the School.

**DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES**

**Grounds Maintenance**

Undertake all aspects of ground maintenance including mowing lawns and playing fields, maintenance of the all weather pitch, use of mini tractor, leaf clearance, sweeping, litter picking, emptying bins, planting and weeding;
In cooperation with others helping with the green house, planting and propagation of plants;
Assist with Schools sustainability projects

Monitor standards of grounds care and report outcomes to the Estates Manager;
**Other tasks as required**

Undertake site maintenance under the direction of the Estates Manager.

After training, undertaking or assisting with the repair of door handles, locks, windows, furniture, and garden equipment and painting both indoors and outdoor;
To work to agreed plan, with realistic time scales finishing tasks to completion;
If necessary be prepared to change task at short notice in emergency;
To undertake any other tasks as directed by the Estates Manager or Head Groundsperson;
Support with snow clearance and site safety as required.

**General**

Maintain confidentiality in and outside the workplace with particular regard to data on the school’s computer systems, safeguarding and child protection;
To undertake training to gain a knowledge of health and safety;
Work safely according to risk assessments and as necessary in respect of manual handling, display screen equipment, working at heights, control of substances hazardous to health, noise and personal protective equipment;
Wear and use suitable Personal and Protective Equipment (PPE as appropriate);
Flexibility to cover additional college events in the evening e.g. open days/parents’ evenings and evening/weekend lettings (for which time in lieu will be given).

To support other members of the site team and cover for absence from time to time;
Support the aims and ethos of the College, setting a good example in terms of dress, behaviour, punctuality and attendance.

**What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?**
- During your time at our College you will be collating evidence of learning, be observed and receive training as to how we do things
- This is averaged over a 24 month period and includes time spent at the beginning of the programme completing ‘sign-up’ & functional skills assessment
- An assessor will visit you in the work-place every four to eight weeks.
- You will receive a Level 2 Diplioma in Horticulture on completion of your Apprenticeship
- One day a week at college
- English & Maths Functional Skills unless exempt

**What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?**

Possibility of a full time post upon completion of Apprenticeship.

You will gain satisfaction and self-confidence from knowing your capabilities have been successfully assessed against an established national framework
The professional qualifications behind the Apprenticeship Programme and the experience through the Hortic diploma role will provide you with a great opportunity to progress your career with us and explore development opportunities that are available to you.

**Working week**

37 Hours per week (Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:00am to 3:30pm with a half hour unpaid lunch break) Flexibility in hours required for seasonal work.

**Desired skills and personal qualities**
- A desire to work hard
- Punctual, hardworking and committed
- Willingness to get hands dirty and learn on the job
- Ability to use computers for recording of some tasks and completing College and apprenticeship training
- Understand and respect confidentiality
- Able to interact with children and adults
- Physical fit able to lift, carry, climb
- Happy to ask for help

**Qualifications**
- GCSE or equivalent English (Grade 5 / C or above) desirable
- GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade 5 / C or above) desirable

**Things to consider**

The role will require you to work outside in all weathers. You will be part of a team on estates and p