Falmouth Town Council’s Horticulture Apprentice Wins Land-Based Apprenticeship of the Year Award

Falmouth Town Council is delighted to announce that our Horticultural Apprentice, Georgia Pollard, has won the Land-Based Apprenticeship of the Year award at the Truro and Penwith College Cornwall Apprenticeships of the Year Awards 2024. The prestigious awards ceremony took place on Friday 7 February at the Eden Project, celebrating the outstanding achievements of apprentices across Cornwall. 

The Award

Georgia was presented with the award by Jayne Kirkham, MP for Truro and Falmouth in recognition of her dedication, skills, and positive impact on Falmouth’s green spaces. Since joining Falmouth Town Council almost exactly a year ago, Georgia has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and community engagement. As part of her apprenticeship, Georgia spends one day a week at Duchy College Rosewarne studying Horticulture and Landscaping, gaining the knowledge and hands-on experience essential to thrive in her role. 

Over the past year, Georgia’s contributions to Falmouth’s green spaces have been substantial. She can often be found working in all weathers around the town, leading planting projects, earning key vocational qualifications, and supporting community events. Her passion for sustainability has not only shaped her work but also inspired those around her. Beyond horticulture, Georgia has embraced additional responsibilities, showing how apprenticeships foster both personal growth and broader community impact. 

Georgia’s Thoughts on Winning the Award

Georgia expressed her delight at receiving the award, saying: 

“I’m grateful for this recognition and for the support from Duchy College and my team at Falmouth Town Council. This apprenticeship has given me amazing opportunities to learn and contribute to something I care about—improving Falmouth’s green spaces. I’ve loved being part of such a great team and look forward to continuing to grow in my role. I hope my journey encourages others to consider apprenticeships as a great way to gain skills and experience while making a real difference.” 

Praise from Falmouth Town Council’s Grounds Manager

Simon Penna, Grounds Manager at Falmouth Town Council, praised Georgia’s achievements: 

“From the very start, Georgia has shown great enthusiasm and dedication to her role. I have had the pleasure of watching her confidence grow significantly and seeing her achieve so much has been truly rewarding. Her passion for green spaces and sustainability is evident in everything she does, and she has become an integral part of our team. Georgia’s award is testament to her hard work and dedication. We are very proud of everything she has achieved so far. Her enthusiasm for her role is inspiring, and I have no doubt that she will continue to make a meaningful impact on Falmouth’s environment. Her dedication has even encouraged us to consider taking on another apprentice in the future, with Georgia as a mentor.” 

Supporting the Next Generation of Apprentices

Georgia’s award comes at the perfect time, as this week is National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting the vital role apprentices play in building skilled and resilient workforces. Falmouth Town Council remains committed to fostering new talent through its apprenticeship programmes. 

Louise Coley, Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Staffing Committee at Falmouth Town Council: 

“At Falmouth Town Council, we recognise the importance of investing in the next generation. Apprenticeships provide a valuable route into skilled employment, benefiting both the individual and the wider community. Georgia’s success is a testament to how these opportunities can nurture talent, and we are proud to support apprentices in developing their careers while making a meaningful contribution to Falmouth.” 

Georgia’s award highlights how successful apprenticeships can be and the impact they can have on both individuals and their communities. Falmouth Town Council looks forward to continuing to support and develop future apprentices who share Georgia’s passion and dedication.