Inspiring Careers in Landscaping

Last week, we were delighted to welcome students from Egglescliffe School’s SEND division to our Wilkinsons Landscapes headquarters for a hands-on look at what a career in landscaping really involves.

Despite the November chill, the students threw themselves into the visit — exploring everything from heavy machinery and tooling to planting design and project planning.

Our team guided them through each part of the process that brings a garden to life:

• Landscaping tools induction – learning how our tools and equipment are maintained and prepared for daily use.

• Operations – a demonstration of our excavators and compact machinery.

• Design and planting – exploring how creativity, planning and teamwork turn drawings into real gardens.
  

It was a fantastic opportunity to show that landscaping isn’t just about hard graft — it’s a creative, varied and rewarding profession that brings together design, construction, horticulture and problem-solving skills.

We’d like to thank Mr Wilkinson and the Egglescliffe School SEND team for arranging the visit and to the students for their enthusiasm and brilliant questions throughout the morning.

“It’s always inspiring to see young people take an interest in our trade,” said Simon Wilkinson. “Landscaping offers so many different paths — from design to construction — and visits like this help us show what’s possible.”

🎓 Continuing the Connection: Egglescliffe Careers Fair

Following the success of the visit, the Wilkinsons team will be attending the Egglescliffe School Careers Fair later this month to meet even more students interested in horticulture, design, and outdoor construction.

Our stand will showcase the full range of career pathways within Wilkinsons — from landscape design and project management to planting, machinery operation, and aftercare. We’ll also be sharing insights into what makes a great landscaper: teamwork, creativity, and a love of working outdoors.

If you’re attending the event, come and say hello — we’ll have team members on hand to answer questions about apprenticeships, training, and what life in landscaping is really like.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Egglescliffe and inspiring the next generation of landscapers to see the outdoors as a place where creativity and craftsmanship thrive.

Contact us if your school or college would like to arrange a similar visit or careers event — we’re always happy to help young people explore this rewarding industry.