The partnership between the APL, Myerscough College and the Landscape Skills Academy is supported by suppliers and will expose apprentices to the latest products, tools, equipment and practice.
All partners and supporters had a similar aim, to develop apprentices who will meet current and future industry need, demonstrating a significant improvement in knowledge, skills and attitude to work.
The scheme represents a first for the sector. Its vision is "To produce the next generation of landscaping professionals with the skills and competences to thrive within the workplace".
Employers with staff in the 2015 programme are Oakley Landscapes, Landform Consultants, The Plants and Paving Company, Green Rooms Landscapes and Gardens, RG Landscape and Construction, Blue Skies Garden Services, Bespoke Outdoor Spaces and Gardenscapes.
Penny Evans, APL learning and careers manager, said the new programme had "shaken up the delivery module", moving aware from day-release training to intensive five-day bootcamps.
Myerscough employer services manager Lee Price said: "With the support of the APL and the Landscape Skills Academy, the learning journey for the new apprentices will I know be an exciting one. This is another example of how we are working closely with industry to deliver an apprenticeship that delivers exactly what is required for individuals to flourish and develop."
Jody Lidgard, Landscape Skills Academy, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the industry to plug into an educational programme with real bite. With the combination of professional delivery and course management from Myerscough College, working closely with our industry based team.
"We are forging the first cohort of landscape construction learners who will not only be 'work ready', but more importantly have the skills to propel their companies forward into an increasingly buoyant market place."
