tmactive appoints first apprentice

Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust has appointed its first apprentice as part of plans to provide employment opportunities for local young people.

George Miles from Hadlow has joined the not-for-profit organisation, which delivers sports and leisure facilities on behalf of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, as an apprentice green keeper.

Based at Poult Wood Golf Course, the 22 year old will be trained in all aspects of green keeping over the next two years, working 35 hours a week. George is being mentored by head green keeper Stuart Crowley, who has more than 35 years’ experience in the industry.

The green keeping technician apprenticeship has been designed by Hadlow College. George, who has nine GCSEs, applied for the role after seeing it advertised on the .GOV website.

“I wanted to do something practical and I prefer to learn on the job. I’m learning how to use and maintain equipment such as mowers, chainsaws and tools and perform tasks like swishing, mowing, hole changing and top dressing together with general landscape management. I’ve really enjoyed working with the team and I’m looking forward to learning more as the apprenticeship continues,” says George.

“My family and friends are proud that I have an apprenticeship as it’s giving me invaluable experience as well as a small income.”

Martin Guyton, CEO of Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust, says: “We are delighted to welcome George as our very first apprentice. He is now an integral part of the team at Poult Wood and we hope his apprenticeship will lead to permanent employment in the industry.”

Applications are now open for other apprenticeships within the trust including fitness instructor, lifeguards, business and administration. The programmes are designed to provide insight into the leisure industry across a range of departments.

“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way of gaining valuable, real-life skills while earning an income. We want to help support local people in our community and help them take that first step on the career ladder,” says Guyton.

For more information about apprenticeships at TMLT, please email Jay Jenkins at Jay.Jenkins@TMActive.co.uk