Squire's Garden Centres has selected two new people selected to take part in its "Grow Our Own" apprenticeship scheme.
Will Challis, aged 20, and Ross Humber, aged 21, were chosen from a number of applicants to take part in the popular scheme.
Squire's "Grow Our Own" apprenticeship scheme will introduce the candidates into the world of horticulture, allowing them to earn while they are learning and combine academic study with on-the-job training and work experience.
The apprentices will attend Merrist Wood College, undertaking the RHS Level 2 Certificate in "The Principles of Horticulture", and then will complete the RHS Level 3 Certificate in "Practical Horticulture" - both of which are nationally-recognised qualifications.
Squire's HR manager Jo Ripley said: "Will Challis and Ross Humber were chosen because they are both very passionate about horticulture, and it is clear they want to make it a career path. They are very excited by the prospect of gaining their RHS level 2 and 3, and are really showing a commitment to do well."
Mr Challis and Mr Humber are currently based at Squire's in West Horsley, but will visit various centres over the year.
Squire's deputy chairman Sarah Squire commented: "As horticulture is fundamentally important to our business we developed our horticultural apprenticeship scheme "Grow Our Own", so that we could train and nurture employees that work in our plant area, giving them the necessary skills and knowledge to advise customers. Apprentices in horticulture lead exciting and varied working lives. They will have a blended learning approach and comprehensive training, which is put into practice whilst working at Squire's Garden Centres. Once their career develops Squire's then offers them extensive and continuous training."
Mr Challis and Mr Humber also had the opportunity to be involved in the running of Squire's Show Garden at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show on June 29-July 4.