A programme for graduate apprentices, enabling them to start their first salaried employment, is to be launched by the Trustees of the late Queen Mother's 16th century Castle of Mey in Caithness,
It is aimed at graduates between the ages of 18 and 30. Initially one garden apprentice and a marketing & communications apprentice will be funded.
The programme will be launched next week by TV personality gardener Alan Titchmarsh next week who has agreed to host the Garden Apprentice for a day at his own home, as well as the successful candidate visiting other famous gardens across the country.
He said:"I was an apprentice myself and have constantly battled to achieve more recognition of apprenticeships as a valid and essential part of the nation's workforce. For too long a university degree has been seen as the ultimate goal; valid and revered as it is; apprenticeships, too, are vital to create a versatile and functioning work force. Practical skills and knowledge should NEVER be underestimated or undervalued. We need to change opinions and perceptions in order to make sure that apprenticeships are truly appreciated. I am delighted to promote a cause in which I deeply believe.
"This inspired apprentice programme to support graduates entering horticulture at a young age will ensure their talent will be nurtured and developed as they gain experience in working in a variety of climates and soils at a number of the most iconic gardens in the UK."
Ashe Windham, the Chairman of The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust said "The Queen Mother loved the gardens at the Castle of Mey which she brought back from a veritable jungle in the mid 1950's, and HRH The Prince Charles continues with that passion during his regular visits. This 'living' legacy to support young gardeners under the watchful eye of our Head Gardener will allow the apprentice to gain invaluable experience and a first job in one of the best gardens in the north of Scotland."
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