Trainee Gardener

Scope

2 Years Fixed Term Contract, Full Time (39 hours per week)

Overview

As a Trainee Gardener at Homestead Park, you will work alongside professional gardeners to develop your skills and knowledge. In addition to learning on the job, you will attend college or complete other training, working towards a qualification equivalent to RHS Level 2, or a related area such as Permaculture, Organic Gardening, or Therapeutic Horticulture.

You will take part in a wide variety of gardening tasks and projects, including one that you will lead from start to finish. There will also be opportunities to engage with the public and collaborate with volunteers.

The main goal of this role is to develop the next generation of skilled gardeners. We are committed to ecologically friendly gardening and creating a welcoming, safe and restorative park for everyone who visits.

While you will be expected to work as hard as any member of the team, we recognise that this is the start of your horticulture career. Your development is our top priority, and you will receive support and guidance from the Craft Gardeners and the rest of the team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with day to day gardening tasks and maintenance of the park.
• Participate in a range of projects and ultimately lead one project from initiation to completion.
• Engage with the public and collaborate with volunteers in garden activities.
• Support the Craft Gardeners and other team members to meet park ecological and safety standards.
• Maintain health and safety, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and safe operation of tools, machinery and equipment.

Qualifications

• Hardworking and conscientious nature with a genuine enthusiasm for learning about plants and the wider ecosystem.
• Experience in gardening or growing (including voluntary work) and a solid understanding of health and safety.
• Ability to work effectively both as part of a team and independently, following guidance when needed.
• Strong communication skills and confidence engaging with the public in a friendly, helpful and welcoming manner.
• Basic computer skills.

Benefits

We offer a supportive and flexible workplace. For details about our benefits: the package includes a supportive environment and opportunities for flexible working.

Equal Opportunity and Diversity

Applications are welcome from all, regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status or socioeconomic background.

We positively encourage applications from people from marginalised backgrounds, including but not limited to those with experience of living in poverty.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and are committed to the recruitment, progression and retention of disabled individuals. Reasonable adjustments will be made to the interview process where needed.