Student will get to work on RHS Tatton design with rangers

SWAPPING the classroom for learning in the great outdoors is perfect for a 22-year-old from Latchford.

Robert Hartley has been handed an internship with Warrington Borough Council’s ranger service based at Orford Jubilee Hub.

The foundation learning student at Warrington Collegiate now spends one day a week at college and two days out with the rangers, come rain or shine.

Robert is hoping that next step will be full time employment.

Robert said: “The job has really grown on me and I’m really enjoying working outdoors especially on sunny days. Each day is different and I’m learning fast about horticulture, park maintenance and how I can help the people who visit the park.”

Andrew Nugent, head ranger added: “I’m really proud of Robert, he has grown in confidence, developing his practical skills for using tools and equipment and his communication skills for talking to the public. He’s a great team worker and has impressed me with his hard work and dedication to the job. We have applied for the prestigious Green Flag award and Robert has been part of that process.”

The highlight of the year for Robert will be helping Alan and the team prepare their eight metre square show garden for the RHS Tatton Flower Show.

“We have worked with our sponsors, Golden Gates Housing Trust, Livewire, the Probation service, Long Lane Garden Centre and the Walton Lea Project to create ‘My Garden’ which is all about demonstrating what can be achieved in a very small space, the size of an average small garden. As well as flowers, shrubs and grass we’ve shown how you can incorporate fruit and vegetable to support healthy living on a budget,” added Andrew Students can find out more about the extensive range of vocational courses and apprenticeships by visiting the website warrington.ac.uk.