This apprenticeship programme has been running for over five decades and it combines on the job training with Horticulture qualifications. The programme spans for three years, after which apprentices are fully qualified.
Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park covering an area of 955 hectares. That is why apprentices move from one location to the next by bike.
Ident tests are conducted every other week to ensure apprentices are able to identify the different flowers they are working with. One of the February tests was about winter camellias. The differences are so subtle that is fascinating.
Wisteria pruning at Pembroke Lodge, possibly the most popular spot with visitors in Richmond. Pictured, Danny, a former apprentice, and Selina.
Sophia is an apprentice at Isabella Plantation, Richmond. She is an Art graduate. On the day I visited she was working on the streams.
