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Keith Chapman

 
Keith-Chapman1-117x147
Competition Landscape Gardening
Age 21
Qualifications National Diploma in Horticulture Apprenticeship
Hometown Bedale, North Yorkshire
 
Training Provider Askham Bryan College
Training Manager Harry Turner
 
"By competing in skills competitions I’ve learnt how to plan my work effectively within set timescales and as part of a team. These are valuable skills for me to use in my employment."
 

Profile
 

Working within the confines of an office never appealed to Keith, who has always preferred being outside. It was during his work experience placement, whilst studying Horticulture at Askham Bryan College, that Keith discovered landscape gardening:

"At college I took a great interest in the landscaping module, so for my work placement I applied to work at a landscaping company and really liked it. I enjoy the different day-to-day challenges and I get huge satisfaction from helping to improve the environment."

Keith hopes that the experience of competing at WorldSkills will give him a broader horizon in his trade and the opportunity to develop his skills further.

Alongside working with landscaping partner Tim Lancaster and their training manager Harry Turner, Keith plans to compete at a number of horticulture shows and events in the lead up to WorldSkills 2007. Keith is particularly appreciative of the support and guidance received from his employer Eddie Miller who is an advocate of skills competitions.

In his spare time Keith enjoys playing rugby, mountain biking, walking and general outdoor pursuits.

Employer
 

Lowmill Landscapes, based in Finghall, North Yorkshire, provides specialist landscaping services throughout the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding area.

Competition Requirements
 

Keith and Tim will work together to create a landscape garden using various materials such as natural stone, concrete, wood and/or plastics, soil, turf and plants.