Vineyard Assistant Apprentice

The apprentice will support all key vineyard and winery activities throughout the growing season and harvest. Tasks will include:

Moving and adjusting wires Tucking vines into trellising Green pruning Leaf stripping Green harvesting Vine and soil sampling Hedging and topping of vines Placing and topping up pest traps (wasps, SWD) Mulching around vines and orchard area with compost and woodchip Strimming Harvesting grapes by hand Processing grapes in the winery (loading press, destemming, cleaning equipment)

The apprentice will also support tours, tastings and winery operations during harvest, and will learn biodynamic preparations, sap analysis and digital vineyard management platforms.

Training:
The apprentice will be taught in-person at Plumpton College via block release This will be one week (five days) every two months during term time

Training Outcome:

Following successful completion of the apprenticeship there is potential to progress to a full-time Vineyard Manager or Assistant Vineyard Manager role at Ham Street Wines, or to pursue further qualifications in viticulture, winemaking or land management.

Employer Description:

Ham Street Wines is one of only a handful of certified Biodynamic vineyards in the UK. Established in 2019 with over 16,000 vines across 10 acres, growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Bacchus and Pinot Gris on the edge of the Romney Marsh. The vineyard follows regenerative and nature-positive principles, with a winery facility on site producing natural wines with minimal intervention

Working Hours :
Monday to Friday, with flexibility required around key vineyard tasks. Typical working day is 8 hours excluding breaks. Some early starts or late finishes may be needed during critical periods, such as harvest.

Skills:
Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Team working,Initiative,Patience,Physical fitness,Resiliance,Willingness to learn