Jobs

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE

This is a development role intended to take the Garden Trainee to competent professional gardener level for the heritage garden sector. A horticultural apprenticeship at SVQ Level 2 or equivalent is preferred as a minimum, however places are also open to those with practical or academic horticultural qualifications or who have proven practical gardening experience. Prior achievement at SCQF Level 5 or above is required to underpin learning, as is a relevant level of computer literacy, ability to produce well-prepared diaries and reports and a good level of communication skills in order to converse clearly with colleagues and visitors. Proof of the right to work in the UK is required.

In addition, we are looking for the following:

Able to follow clear instructions competently

Willing to work outside in all weathers and undertake physically demanding tasks

Prior knowledge of relevant Health and Safety procedures would be useful, as would prior experience of horticultural machinery

Able to use tools and equipment as required for the role

Good people skills enabling strong relationships both externally and internally, to be built and maintained

Enthusiasm for horticulture and commitment to completing the training year

Able to work flexibly as part of a team

Commitments to our customer service standards – our gardens are open to the public almost every day!

DIMENSIONS AND SCOPE OF JOB

The Garden Trainee

will work as part of the garden team increasing their knowledge and experience of duties such as soil cultivation, weeding, establishing and maintaining plants and displays, propagation, turf care, using tools equipment and machinery, and much more. This will include physically demanding activities in all weathers

will take responsibility for their learning which will include significant out of hours study, skills practice and/or project work

will be required to meet regularly with Trust staff to discuss progress, assessment of which is constantly monitored in order to provide developmental feedback

will take part in additional training offered by the Trust

will be based in Threave Garden but may be given opportunities to visit or work in other Trust gardens

will work 5 days out of any 7, which may include weekends and evenings helping with events and other activities

may, as confidence and skills develop over time, guide less-experienced volunteers or other Garden Trainees

will work closely with rest of the property team, and the area Gardens & Designed Landscapes Manager

will be expected to interact daily with other staff, volunteers and visitors and may be asked to meet donors who are supporting the Trust with finance

will be expected to participate, contribute, and feature in promotional activities/material for the School and the Trust

is not a budget holder but will be responsible for submitting any expense claims in good time and in line with allowances

Application Deadline: Sunday 19/01/2025