College student working with Pendle Council has been nominated for national award

 

Joe Bushby works for the Landscape Maintenance Department of Operational Services. He started as an apprentice gardener in August 2022, as part of his Horticultural Apprenticeship at Burnley College.

In February this year, he was successful in securing a permanent gardener position with Pendle Borough Council.

Even though Joe has secured himself a full-time job, he still wants to finish his qualification. And it seems his enthusiasm for learning – on and off the job – is what prompted his tutor to put him forward for the award.

Joe has been nominated for the inaugural Land-Based & Environment Learner of the Year Awards 2023 which is being delivered by Lantra and Landex.

This programme celebrates the talent, success and achievements of individual learners in land-based and environment industries.

Joe was nominated for the award by his tutor at Burnley College, who said: “A nomination truly deserved for a ‘rising star’.”

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “This is wonderful to see someone who has proved themselves, not only by securing a permanent job, but by being recognised for their hard work and positive attitude.

“I wish Joe every success in this award process and in his job with Pendle Borough Council.”

Joe currently works in the Sports Team, maintaining the Council’s outdoor sports facilities. He is also involved in the grass cutting at Alkincoats Park in Colne and leads on differential mowing across the borough – areas of grass which are being allowed to grow longer for biodiversity and to help with the reduction of machinery emissions.

David Walker, Pendle Borough Council's Assistant Director of Operational Services, said: “Joe has been a real asset since he joined us, and the team are enjoying working with him.

“We have been really impressed with his work and his attitude, which came across really well in a recent recruitment drive which enabled us to offer Joe a full-time position, which we hope will allow him to develop his skills and knowledge further.”

Councillor Zafar Ali, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, added: “It is great to have someone so passionate about the environment and the borough’s outdoor spaces working for us, and I hope his enthusiasm and dedication for his work and his studies are recognised when the winners of these awards are announced.”

Nominations are currently being reviewed by an expert judging panel. Shortlisted candidates will be informed by 15 September. The awards ceremony will take place at Reaseheath College on 22 November.