Introducing this week’s apprentice..
Name: Jack Peters
Job Title: Grounds Maintenance Operative
Company: John O’Conner (Grounds Maintenance Ltd)
Apprenticeship: Amenity Horticulture Level 3
Twitter:@JohnOConnerGM
Apprentice of the week: Jack Peters
What's a typical day like for you?
9 hours straight of hard work, mainly working as part of the Grounds Maintenance Team. I enjoy it most when the weather is nice!
What has been the most memorable day of your apprenticeship so far?
Would have to be working on designing and developing the rose garden at Alexandra Palace for the 150 year anniversary celebrations. It is a beautiful place, I thoroughly enjoyed the work and the whole experience. Everyone made me feel very welcome.
Why did you decide to become an apprentice?
When I was in secondary school I obtained my level 1 in horticulture which I really enjoyed. I chose the apprenticeship as a career so that I could obtain my level 2 & 3 NVQ. This way I can gain my qualifications while earning and learning practical skills.
What are the best things about being an apprentice?
Best things are that you still get to go to college and learn and progress. You get full support in all areas and get a feel for what the industry is like.
The rose garden at Alexandra Palace
What are the best things about working in the industry you work in?
I love being outside. There is constant work and no time to be bored. I just really enjoy the variety of work involved, every day is different.
What's the most surprising thing you've learnt during your apprenticeship?
How far I have come in such a short space of time. I just fitted in straight away in the contract which I was given. I didn’t expect to fit in so well. John O’Conner have helped me so much.
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship?
100% definitely go for it. It is a really great opportunity. Check out apprenticeships.org.uk for heaps of advice and tips.
What do you think are the biggest myths about apprenticeships?
You get taken on and forgotten about or you don’t get the qualifications that you expected. This just isn’t true. Another myth is when it’s time for progression they get rid of you. If you find the right company there are lots of real opportunities to progress.
What do you expect to be doing in 10 years time?
Being in a supervisor role or managing my own depot. This has been inspired by supervisors and managers I work with who have also worked their way up.
What advice would you give someone leaving school or college now?
Yes definitely. I didn’t even consider university I just went straight for the apprenticeship.
What advice would you give someone leaving school or college now?
Not to be too concerned with a university placement. An apprenticeship gives you so much more, sooner and with no debt. With university there are lots of people being taught in groups but with an apprenticeship it is one to one.
For more information on apprenticeships visit apprenticeships.org.uk