Trainee Case Studies
Wayne and Robert, Horticulture students
Having finished school, though not with brilliant results, Wayne joined Roots and Shoots in September 2005. Robert came from Southwark College, where he had completed an arts course. They were both part of the first intake to attempt NVQ1 in horticulture in 40 weeks.
At Roots and Shoots the Employment Liaison Officer secured a one day per week placement for Wayne with the garden department at The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn. He followed this ten week placement with another at Grosvenor Estate. He worked with their gardens team on various private squares including Belgrave and Eaton Squares.
Robert's first placement was with the Royal Hospital Chelsea, where he stayed for nearly 30 weeks. He then moved on to Buckingham Palace garden department for a three week block placement.
Following work with Ian and Amanda they both also secured work, at first unpaid but then paid, with Andrew Gleave-Coley, a local contract gardener. Throughout this time they worked hard on their NVQ, their English and Maths and the Preparing for Employment Certificate. They completed the course and were awarded their NVQ in horticulture and other certificates.
Wayne and Robert then attended a trial day organised by Quadron (parks maintenance in Southwark) and the Connexions Service. They both stood out on the trial, being described as 'natural gardeners', and were offered apprenticeships with Quadron. They also now attend Capel Manor College for one day per week to study for NVQ2 in Horticulture.