Apprentice Ella Unlocks Success in Horticulture Supervisor Apprenticeship
26th August 2025
The first end-point assessment for the revised Level 3 Horticulture Supervisor apprenticeship assessment took place in July in the stunning surroundings of Buckfast Abbey in Devon.
Ella Miles became the first to complete the revised Level 3 Horticulture Supervisor apprenticeship at Buckfast Abbey, earning a distinction for her advanced skills in plant care and team supervision.
Inspired by a childhood love of gardening and supported by Bicton College, Ella progressed from Level 2 to Level 3, gaining hands-on experience and academic training.
She now holds a permanent role as Assistant Horticulturist and Curator, with industry leaders praising her potential to shape the future of horticulture.
Ella Miles, former Level 3 Horticulture Supervisor Apprentice
Revising Standards for Optimal Apprenticeships
Under the revised standard the apprentice is required to carry out a linked assessment comprising several tasks including plant identification, soil analysis and planting accompanied by a series of advanced questions relating to a range of horticultural topics and a professional discussion reviewing the apprentice’s portfolio.
Like the previous Level 3 version, the new version also includes a specialist project which gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate a range of advanced skills including managing others. This supervisory element is a key part of the apprenticeship enabling the apprentice to develop the all-important skills needed for higher level management in horticulture and landscaping.
Ella Miles was the first apprentice to undertake the revised end point assessment having completed her programme at Buckfast Abbey and supported by Suzie Hauxwell and the apprenticeship team at Bicton College, part of the Cornwall College Group.
Careers in Horticulture: Ella's Journey
As a child Ella was a keen gardener and spent a lot of time surrounded by plants. During her Product Design A Level at college she reconnected with her passion for plants when she began exploring the world of hydroponics. After researching and experimenting with plants for the first time in a while, it was clear that Ella wanted a career in horticulture.
The next step on this journey was being successful in gaining a position as a Level 2 Horticulture Operative Apprentice at Buckfast Abbey.
With such an ideal location for her apprenticeship training she was able to develop a wide range of horticulture skills as part of her ‘on-the job’ training and this was supplemented by her studies. It was a logical next step in developing her horticulture skills to move on to the Level 3 and Buckfast Abbey encouraged her to do so.
Ella commented:
“After completing the Level 2 I then progressed onto the Level 3 Horticulture Supervisor Apprenticeship, this course took everything I had learnt on the Level 2 to a higher level with the addition of supervisory elements.
I learnt how to supervise teams effectively with a significant consideration for sustainable practices. The apprenticeship courses having been essential in shaping me as a horticulturist.
My employer, Buckfast Abbey, supported me through my apprenticeship journey with allocated study time, work tailored to topics I studied, and a very knowledgeable mentor.”
Ella shone during her apprenticeship and gained a distinction in her end-point assessment. Having completed her Level 3 Ella has now secured a permanent role at Buckfast Abbey as Assistant Horticulturist and Curator.
Celebrating Rising Talent in Horticulture Apprenticeships
Nigel Cox, Lantra Horticulture Lead Assessor, also commented:
“It is wonderful to see a young talented apprentice starting out on the journey into a horticulture career. Our industry needs people with the drive and talent of Ella to shape the future of horticulture in this country.
An apprenticeship provides the ideal opportunity to gain those skills in a realistic working environment- how lucky to be at Buckfast, a truly inspirational garden and team! The partnership with Bicton College provided the additional support that enabled Ella to excel. I know she will be a real asset to the horticulture world!”
Sarah Johnson, Lantra EPA Project Manager, added:
“Congratulations Ella on achieving your horticulture supervisor apprenticeship with a distinction.
It is fantastic to hear of your progression in the horticulture industry and best wishes for your future career.”
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