Advanced apprentice in arboriculture Amy Baxter works for Amey and studies at Myerscough College. "It's funny sometimes seeing the reaction of the public, who really don't expect to see a young female high up in a tree working with a chainsaw," said the 21-year-old from Liverpool.
"I love my job and am looking forward to a long career within the industry. I would recommend apprenticeships to other young people as a fantastic way to start a new career. You earn a wage and continue with your studies."
Jess Hodgson, 18, is a garden maintenance apprentice at ISS Facilities Services Landscaping for Riverside, a social landlord. She was the first woman to work at ISS's Carlisle depot.
"It's a male-dominated industry but it's not just for lads - lasses can do this too," she said. "I like it because I'm outside and learning lots of things. I want to get on in the world. In five years I would like to be a team leader at ISS."
Manchester City FC apprentice groundsman Katie Croft is one of the first women to work in grounds care for a Premier League football club. The 19-year-old from Manchester moved from a job in customer services and is now studying horticulture (sports turf) with Myerscough College.
"So far things are going really well and I am learning new skills almost every day," she said. "The new facilities are amazing."
