Training & Workforce Development
Building skills, confidence and the next generation of landscapers
Training and workforce development are central to how YGS Landscapes operates. We invest in our people at every level to ensure work is delivered consistently, competently and with pride.
This approach helps us deliver consistently high standards on site while supporting long-term careers within the business.
Core training and workforce competence
All staff are supported through a structured training programme designed to build capability and maintain high standards across every site. This includes:
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CSCS certification
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First aid training and regular refreshers
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Machinery and equipment operation training
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Horticultural knowledge and best practice
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Health & safety training at all levels
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Supervisor and leadership development
All training and qualifications are monitored through a central training matrix, ensuring competence remains current and refresher training is planned and delivered on time.
Apprenticeships with City College Plymouth
A collaborative approach shaping the future of the sector
YGS Landscapes is proud to work in close partnership with City College Plymouth to deliver high-quality apprenticeship training that reflects the real needs of the landscaping and land-based sector.
For many years, we felt that our industry was underrepresented in local apprenticeship provision. Rather than accept this, we worked collaboratively with the College to design a programme that genuinely prepares young people for long-term careers in landscaping and horticulture.
That collaboration led to the development of a two-year Level 2 Horticulture and Landscaping Apprenticeship designed jointly by YGS Landscapes and City College Plymouth.
The result is an apprenticeship pathway designed around real site conditions, real expectations and real career progression.
Training at YGS Landscapes at a glance
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CSCS and machinery training
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Apprenticeships with City College Plymouth
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LANTRA-aligned in-house development
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Supervisor and leadership progression
Enhanced In-House Training Beyond Apprenticeship Delivery
Recognising widening skills gaps and increasing recruitment challenges across the sector, YGS Landscapes worked with City College Plymouth to help strengthen structured horticultural training locally.
Alongside the college-led programme, YGS Landscapes delivers additional in-house training aligned with the LANTRA curriculum for land-based industries.
In addition, apprentices receive an additional day per month of structured on-site training, reinforcing the core syllabus while broadening their exposure to practical and professional competencies.
This enhanced programme is designed to develop well-rounded professionals – not just site operatives – and includes:
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Project management and planning
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Landscape design fundamentals
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Community and social value initiatives
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Sustainability and environmental responsibility
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Business awareness and commercial understanding
This enriched approach gives apprentices exposure to multiple facets of the sector, helping them build confidence, technical capability and informed long-term career aspirations.
Progression, Responsibility & Long-Term Careers
Our approach to apprenticeships is built around progression, not just completion.
Several members of our current team, including management-level staff, began their careers with YGS Landscapes in early roles and progressed through the business over time. This reflects our long-term commitment to development, opportunity and internal progression.
Apprentices are encouraged to take ownership of their work as their skills grow, and many are already capable of handling key aspects of their role independently. As they progress, we actively support opportunities to take on greater responsibility, with clear pathways towards roles such as team leader and supervisor.
Training, Opportunity & Wider Industry Impact
At the heart of YGS Landscapes is a strong belief in opportunity, sustainability and long-term value – for people as well as the environment.
Our founder’s lifelong dedication to the industry continues to shape this approach, with a strong focus on practical skills, opportunity and long-term contribution to both the sector and the communities we work in.
We value the collaborative relationship we have built with City College Plymouth and the shared ambition it represents. This investment is not only for today’s apprentices, but for future cohorts and the wider industry.
YGS Landscapes invests in training because workforce competence directly supports safe delivery, consistent quality and long-term service reliability.
Interested in Apprenticeships or Careers at YGS Landscapes?
We welcome enquiries from those interested in apprenticeship opportunities, practical training and long-term careers within the landscaping sector.
Planning a Landscaping Project Across Devon & Cornwall?
Whether you are planning new works, reviewing maintenance requirements or preparing for tender, our team would be pleased to discuss your project.
Commercial landscaping & grounds maintenance across Devon & Cornwall
Telephone: 01752 337710
YGS Landscapes provides commercial landscaping, grounds maintenance, arboriculture and fencing services across Devon and Cornwall.| Established 1973
ISO 9001 · ISO 14001 · ISO 45001
YGS Landscapes Ltd, Elfordleigh Nursery, Larch Grove, Plymouth PL7 5EB
Email: info@ygslandscapes.co.uk
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