Apprenticeships act as an accessible avenue into any industry. From hands-on experience to learning support, those searching for entry into horticulture have the opportunity to do so with apprenticeships from organisations such as the Landscape Institute, The Royal Parks and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). 

Chris Shaw, a first year Level 2 Horticultural Operative, is six months into his apprenticeship with the RHS. “I think apprenticeship’s are really special. I don’t think anything else gives you an opportunity like an apprenticeship does where you get hands-on experience. You’re treated like a part of the team and you get to meet all the people within the industry while also being a complete beginner.”

After dropping out of university, Shaw went into a career in wedding planning. After just over two years, with several mornings spent dreading the working day ahead, he felt it was time for a change. “I didn’t know where I wanted to go,” he admits, until a conversation with his grandparents sparked an interest in horticulture. 

“I’ve never been very good at sitting at computers, I knew I always wanted to do something active. So, when I learnt about this opportunity, I jumped at it with two hands.” 

The two-year course combines working across RHS gardens, college studies and further opportunities for a career in horticulture. “Everyday is different. We learn while being a part of the industry. I think that’s what is quite special about the RHS course – it’s very connected.”

Shaw has met names from across the entire industry, learning first hand what it is like to work for the RHS. 

On the course with three others, the 22-year-old finds it very social. “I was so worried about finding friends, but within the first day – you do.” He explains the others have prior experience with gardening and horticulture, while “I had no interest prior.”

“However, I have always cared for the environment since I was young and had a pull to the outdoors, but I’ve never seen it as a career before.”

Since being a part of the RHS course, Shaw hasn’t stopped learning. “We’re surrounded by people who have been in the industry their whole lives and you come in the morning and they’re still reading books and looking up new articles because it’s constantly changing and that’s really a big draw for me – the fact you can never hit the limit you always are learning that’s something very special to me.”

Having just passed his probation, Shaw looks forward to what the next year and a half will bring. Further than that, he wants to expand his knowledge in exotic plants whilst travelling around the world. 

Learn more about RHS apprenticeships here.