Navigating Diverse Pathways to Success in Green Space Careers
Embarking on a successful career in green space can take various educational pathways, catering to individuals at different stages of their lives and learning style preferences. Whether you are a school leaver, an adult looking to upskill, or someone contemplating a career change, there are diverse training options to suit your needs.
Traditional Routes: Colleges and Universities
For those seeking a more traditional route, colleges and universities provide comprehensive courses in horticulture, ecology, and arboriculture. Enrolling in full or part-time programmes can equip you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, laying a solid foundation for a successful career. An excellent example is Capel Manor College in London, known for its environmental focus. Here, you can participate in workshops, pursue diplomas, and gain certification in various subjects like horticulture, arboriculture, landscape design, floristry, and even business and digital skills.
Hands-On Vocational Training
Vocational training is an avenue that offers hands-on skills and industry qualifications. Short-term courses, such as those on the safe use of ride-on mowers, chainsaw maintenance, and tree climbing, ensure you are job-ready and equipped with practical expertise.
On-the-Job Learning Opportunities
On-the-job training is a popular choice, blending hands-on experience with classroom learning. Apprenticeships provide a direct path to a new career, allowing individuals to gain practical skills and insights. In London, organisations like Groundwork London’s Green Team, Walworth Gardens, Peabody, and idverde offer paid trainee positions, including roles like Trainee Arborist and Trainee Gardener.
Future Gardeners Initiative
There are also excellent initiatives available, such as Bankside Open Spaces Trust’s Future Gardeners, which is “an innovative training and work experience scheme, giving participants the core skills to gain entry-level jobs in the horticulture industry without having any previous experience or specialist education.”
No matter your age or background, the diverse array of learning pathways ensures that a fulfilling and successful career in the green space sector is within reach. With the right training, you can cultivate the skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic and rewarding field.
For more information on possible careers in the green space sector read our blog. Or, if you’re ready to take the next step in your journey towards a green career, visit our jobs board.
More related reading to help you on your journey to your green space career:
Find out what it is like to be an apprentice from Jack, who says: “I have matured and bettered as a person… I am more confident now than I was at the start of the apprenticeship.”
Find out more about the Bankside Open Spaces Trust’s Future Gardeners programme from the manager, Louisa.
Find out more about Capel Manor College and the training opportunities they offer.
Find out what it’s like to be a green space trainee from Aziz, who says: “One week after applying for a role, I joined the Green Team. The process went really quick and allowed me to leave universal credit after 3 weeks only.”