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About the green apprenticeships

The Green Space Apprenticeships are part of the drive to reduce the number of young people Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET). There was huge demand for 47 places on similar schemes last year. Because of this, the number of apprenticeship places available across the UK has been increased to 175 in the current year.

Under the scheme, 175 green-fingered Young Apprentices will:

• get a solid training in garden planning, design, management and maintenance
  
• help maintain much-needed green space in deprived urban areas
  
• gain the skills they need for full-time work

Pay while you train

Apprentices are paid a minimum salary of £95 per week while they train. The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) recommends that they receive a higher salary wherever possible, but this may vary. You can find out about vacancies in your region by following the links below.

• Apprenticeships and training in Wales Opens new window

• Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland Opens new window

• Apprenticeships in Scotland Opens new window

• Book a free call back from a Next Step careers adviser Opens new window

From apprentice to TV star

As a youngster, Alan Titchmarsh MBE was given the chance to train as a green apprentice by Ilkley Council, Yorkshire. Alan said: "As a former green apprentice myself, I believe the practical skills provided by these apprenticeships are just as important as university degrees.

"This country needs a new generation of gardeners and I'm delighted more budding horticulturists will soon be able to sign up to this popular scheme."

More on Directgov

• Work and careers (young people section)

• Apprenticeships (education and learning section)

• Skills for work if you're under 19 (education and learning section)

• Options after 16: getting into university and higher education (education and learning section)