Liam completes his grounds maintenance apprenticeship at Farnborough Business Park

Building confidence through hands-on experience

After two years of learning on site and at college, Liam Dorning-Mills has successfully completed his Level 2 Horticulture apprenticeship with IPM Facilities at Farnborough Business Park.

When he first applied, Liam wasn’t entirely sure which direction he wanted to take. He just knew he wanted something practical, where he could work with his hands and see the results of what he was doing. With some early insight into the landscaping industry through his uncle, he decided to take the opportunity and hasn’t looked back.

Over the course of his apprenticeship, Liam has developed a broad range of skills. From propagation and seed sowing to using and maintaining machinery, he’s embraced the variety that comes with grounds maintenance. Along the way, he’s built a strong understanding of how small changes can influence the success of a landscape and why getting the detail right matters.

Learning in a real working environment

Working at Farnborough Business Park has played a big part in Liam’s development.

It’s a large, high-profile site where standards matter, and where the landscape is constantly evolving through the seasons. That mix of structure and variety has helped Liam find his rhythm, building confidence as he’s taken on new tasks and responsibilities.

Alongside his day-to-day work, he’s completed a range of training including working at height, manual handling, first aid, and PA1 and PA6 spraying certifications. Each one has added to his confidence and understanding of how the role fits together.

Developing an eye for detail

One area where Liam has really stood out is his growing interest in biodiversity.

Farnborough Business Park has a strong focus on creating and maintaining habitats, and this has given Liam the chance to learn beyond the basics of grounds maintenance. Through the site’s wider environmental activities, he’s gained a better understanding of how different elements of the landscape connect.

More recently, he’s taken a particular interest in the discovery of Bee Orchids across the site. He’s become skilled at spotting them early, mapping where they appear and suggesting simple ways to protect them, such as introducing small wildflower areas. It’s a small detail, but one that reflects a much wider awareness of the landscape.

“Liam’s development over the past two years has been excellent to see. He’s taken on every challenge with the right attitude and has built a really strong understanding of the site and the standards we expect. His attention to detail, especially when it comes to biodiversity, has really stood out, and he’s become a valued part of the team here at Farnborough.” - Chris Woodcock, IPM’s Site Manager at Farnborough Business Park.

Part of the team and looking ahead

Liam is quick to recognise the role the team at Farnborough Business Park has played in his journey.

From day one, he’s been supported by colleagues who have shared their knowledge and helped him settle into the role. That environment has made a real difference, allowing him to build confidence and feel part of the team.

His contribution has also been recognised by the client, with positive feedback on the standards he helps maintain across the site.

Completing his apprenticeship is a significant milestone, but it’s also just the beginning.

Liam leaves the programme with a strong foundation, practical experience across a wide range of tasks, and a clear understanding of what good looks like on site. Just as importantly, he’s developed a genuine interest in the work and the environment he’s helping to maintain.

We're delighted to share that Liam will continue his horticultural journey with IPM as a permanent member of the Farnborough Business Park team. We look forward to supporting his continued development and seeing everything he achieves in the years ahead.