Gardener Apprentice - Level 2

Come and join us on a National Trust apprenticeship where we will support and develop you to play an integral part in our work to tackle climate change, protect historic sites and help people and nature thrive. You don't need experience for this role, just loads of enthusiasm and a desire to learn.

As one of our Horticulture Apprentices, you'll be part of our horticulture teams, helping to look after one of our 224 historic gardens, playing a vital role in delivering our conservation and climate change strategies, undertaking regular horticultural maintenance and care to safeguard them for the future. On successful completion you will have a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Horticulture, taking your first steps towards a future career in gardening.

Interviews will take place in July. This role will start in October 2026 and run for 19 months. For any queries relating to this apprenticeship, please contact

What it's like to work here

Our gardens are heritage sites and homes to the most extensive plant collection in Europe. Our gardeners are responsible for the conservation and development of plant collections and gardens to increase membership and visitor numbers. You will develop skills in practical gardening techniques, health and safety, plant and site maintenance, teamwork and problem solving.

Join us as a Garden Apprentice at the Suffolk property group which includes Ickworth House, Melford Hall and Lavenham Guildhall. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a dedicated garden team working across the wider Suffolk portfolio, gaining hands on experience in a diverse range of historic settings.

Ickworth is a special place with a remarkable history, welcoming over 340,000 visitors each year. At its heart lies one of the earliest Italianate formal gardens, complemented by a vast stumpery, a 5 acre walled garden and miles of woodland walks. These spaces create a rich and varied environment for learning and development.

As an apprentice you'll work alongside experienced horticulturists, developing practical skills in plant care, landscape maintenance and garden restoration, while helping to conserve and enhance this unique setting for future generations. No two days will be the same, and you'll play a key role in ensuring every visitor enjoys an exceptional experience.

Working with your mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, you will develop the skills and knowledge relevant to the apprenticeship standard Horticultural Operative Level 2.

Your training will be delivered via a combination of mandatory 5 day college blocks and online learning, with all college expenses and travel paid. There will also be opportunities to travel to other National Trust locations, including overnight stays, to expand your learning and experience. You'll attend regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression.

Who we're looking for

We would love to hear from you if you meet the following eligibility criteria by the start date of the role:

• A minimum of 2 GCSEs including English and maths at grade E/2, Functional Skills Level 1 or equivalent
• (If you hold an EHCP, Entry Level 3 in English and maths is acceptable.)
• Aged 16 or over and have completed Year 11
• Have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the contract and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the past three consecutive years
• Not currently on any other training or education programme (e.g. another apprenticeship or a degree)
• Able to travel to the work location

If you are aged 18 or under at the point of enrolment and have not achieved English and maths at grade C/4, you may be enrolled on functional skills level 2 as part of your apprenticeship.

If you have a qualification in the same or a related subject or have lots of relevant work experience this will mean you are not eligible for the apprenticeship.

Once you've checked you're eligible, please use your application to tell us how you demonstrate the following Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Ready to start your apprenticeship - no experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm
• Positive, curious and up for learning - motivated, open minded and keen to grow
• Confident to speak and happy to listen - you help people feel heard and included
• A great team player - flexible, supportive and comfortable adapting when needed
• Able to follow instructions and stay safe - especially when using tools and equipment (we'll teach you everything you need to know)
• Focused on giving great service - you care about helping others and doing a good job
• Friendly and respectful - especially when working with volunteers and the wider community

The package

The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria

National Trust place

Ickworth, The Rotunda, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE

Closing Date

Closing Date: 22nd June 2026

Equal Opportunities Statement

The National Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating a fair and equal society, free from discrimination. You can read more about our commitment to inclusion and diversity here.

Safeguarding Statement

The National Trust is committed to safe recruitment processes to help the organisation attract and appoint the right staff or volunteer for the role and responsibilities as set out in the vacancy advert. We will not accept applicants who are not suitable to work with children, young people or adults at risk. If you have any questions about your suitability for this vacancy, please contact the people service centre.