HORTICULTURE students at Wigan and Leigh College have begun work placements with Wigan Council.

Four level two and 10 level three students are working for between one and three days per week across council parks and gardens.

Some of the learners will gain experience working in Mesnes Park, Pennington Park and Jubilee Park, as well as Wigan and Leigh Cemeteries. Others are undertaking placements at Haydock Racecourse and Bickershaw Nursery.

David Robertson, from Wigan and Leigh College, said: “We’re so pleased to have been able to secure placements for so many students with the council.

“They will be able to gain valuable insight from the experienced staff there, as well as getting the chance to work in varied environments throughout the growing seasons.

“We actively encourage all our students to gain work experience placements, as they can really help to prepare them for the working world.

“It also gives them the opportunity to experience the different fields within the industry that are open to them once they graduate.”

By working alongside the council – one of the largest employers in the area – seasonal or full-time employment could be the next step for the students.