The job itself
Lelley Fields, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's first owned and operated crematorium is situated in the heart of the Holderness area. Our facility offers people a fitting and sensitive place to commemorate their loved ones, with features including two service halls, waiting rooms, woodland, memory walk and other areas for remembrance and celebration.
We are pleased to offer an opportunity to join the team at Lelley Fields as a
Horticulture Apprentice, undertaking a 27-month fixed term, full-time apprenticeship. This role provides an excellent starting point for those looking to begin a career in horticulture, while also being suitable for anyone seeking to gain new skills or change direction into an outdoor, practical profession.
What does it look like?
The apprenticeship combines paid, hands-on work with formal learning and is designed to support people at the early stages of their working life. The successful applicant will spend four days per week working on site at Lelley Fields Crematorium and one day per week attending Bishop Burton College, working towards a nationally recognised horticulture qualification. Throughout the apprenticeship, you will be supported to develop both practical ability and confidence in the workplace, learning from experienced colleagues as you progress.
During your time on site, you will be involved in the care and maintenance of lawns, planted areas, woodland and spaces dedicated to remembrance. You will learn how to work with plants and landscapes through the changing seasons and play a key role in keeping the site looking its best for visitors. The role offers a valuable opportunity to build real-world experience while learning the standards and expectations of a professional working environment.
Who do we need?
We are looking for someone with an interest in horticulture and the natural environment, who is keen to learn, develop new skills and build a solid foundation for their future. No previous professional experience is required, making this an ideal opportunity for a school leaver or someone at the start of their career, as well as for those looking to retrain. What matters most is a positive attitude, reliability and a willingness to engage thoughtfully with both the practical and human aspects of the role.
Lelley Fields is an operational crematorium, and this apprenticeship goes beyond traditional grounds maintenance. It is a place where families come during significant and often emotional moments, so sensitivity, respect and professionalism are essential. Applicants must be comfortable working in this setting and be able to appreciate the importance of maintaining a calm, dignified atmosphere at all times.
Want to know more?
To help potential applicants decide whether this apprenticeship is right for them, we will be holding an
open evening ahead of recruitment. This will include a presentation about the apprenticeship, what the role involves and what is expected of the successful applicant. It will also provide an opportunity to meet the team, ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of what it is like to work at Lelley Fields Crematorium. Attendance is strongly encouraged, particularly for those new to the world of work.
Location:
Lelley Fields Crematorium, Sproatley Road, Preston, HU12 8FX
Date:
Tuesday 17th February 2026
Time:
6.30pm
To register interest in attending or if you have any questions, please e-mail us at
lelleyfields@eastriding.gov.uk or call on
01482 392910.
We look forward to meeting you!
Please see our job outline for further details on the job role and the employee specification, on here you will find the skills and behaviours we are looking for. Guidance on completing the application and in particular, meeting the essential criteria, can be found on the careers homepage at https://www.eastridingcouncil.jobs/jobs-and-careers/application-and-interview-help/
Applications are welcome from everyone, irrespective of age, but especially from people in the under 25 group. Please ensure you check eligibility criteria before applying (www.apprenticeships.org.uk).
