Growing Future Talent: Matt Guest Joins Frank P Matthews Apprenticeship Programme

Frank P Matthews Ltd is pleased to welcome Matt Guest to its Production Team as the company continues its commitment to developing the next generation of horticultural professionals.

Matt, a former pupil of Tenbury High Ormiston Academy, has joined the business as an apprentice and will embark on a two-year apprenticeship programme, working towards his Crop Technician Level 3 qualification while gaining valuable hands-on experience within the nursery’s production operations.

Investing in Future Horticultural Talent

Supporting and developing careers in horticulture has long been an important part of the Frank P Matthews ethos. Since launching its apprenticeship programme in 2016, the business has helped numerous young people gain qualifications, industry experience, and long-term career opportunities within the nursery sector.

The apprenticeship programme is complemented by an in-house training and development pathway, designed to help employees progress their careers and reach their full potential. Several former apprentices have gone on to secure permanent positions within the business, demonstrating the value of combining workplace learning with formal qualifications.

One such success story is Calum Evans, who joined Frank P Matthews as an apprentice and has since progressed through the company to become a Trainee Team Leader within the Production Team.

Learning through experience

Frank P Matthews works in partnership with Pershore College to deliver the Crop Technician Level 3 apprenticeship programme. The qualification provides apprentices with the practical and technical skills required to grow, monitor and manage crops within a commercial horticultural environment.

Throughout the course, apprentices develop expertise in areas including:

• – Plant health and crop nutrition
• – Irrigation systems and water management
• – Pest and disease monitoring and control
• – Machinery operation and maintenance
• – Crop production techniques
• – Quality assurance and operational efficiency

By combining classroom-based learning with practical workplace experience, the programme helps develop the skilled horticultural professionals needed to support the future of the industry.

A rewarding career path

Throughout his apprenticeship, Matt will work alongside experienced members of the Production Team and gain first-hand experience of commercial tree production, helping him build a strong foundation for his future career.

Lorna Maskell, Production Director at Frank P Matthews, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Matt to the team. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to introduce new talent to the industry and help young people gain practical skills and experience.

Horticulture isn’t always an easy career choice. It involves hard work, working in all weathers and a real commitment to the job, but it can be incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to support local people like Matt as they begin their journey in the profession.”

Matt’s appointment reflects Frank P Matthews’ continued investment in both its workforce and the future of UK horticulture, while strengthening valuable links with local schools, colleges and the wider community.

Everyone at Frank P Matthews would like to wish Matt every success as he begins his apprenticeship and looks forward to supporting him throughout his horticultural career.

For further information on the Course visit: Crop Technician (Container-based): Level 3 Apprenticeship – WCG – Warwickshire College