Apprentice Gardener

The garden consists of formal lawns, mature herbaceous borders, ornamental planting and established trees and shrubs, alongside a traditional walled garden with fruit and vegetable production and propagation facilities.

This position would suit someone with a genuine passion for horticulture who is looking to build and develop a long-term career within the industry.

You will gain extensive practical experience working alongside our experienced team within a historic private country estate while studying towards an industry-recognised horticultural qualification through Sparsholt College.

At work you will be supported in developing your practical knowledge, plant skills and confidence across a broad range of horticultural disciplines and learn how to contribute to the ongoing care, presentation and development of the gardens including:

Lawn mowing and fine lawn care Planting trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants Maintaining herbaceous borders and ornamental planting Weeding, mulching and soil improvement Hedge cutting and pruning Soil cultivation and preparation Watering and irrigation Fruit and vegetable production Greenhouse work and plant propagation Plant identification and aftercare Safe operation and maintenance of horticultural machinery and hand tools Assisting with planting schemes and soft landscaping projects Maintaining high standards of presentation throughout the gardens Working safely and effectively as part of the estate team

Previous professional gardening experience is not essential. More important to us is your attitude, enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

The successful candidate will:

Have a genuine interest in plants, gardens and horticulture Be enthusiastic about developing new practical skills and horticultural knowledge Have a strong work ethic and take pride in their work Be reliable, punctual and trustworthy Have good attention to detail Be able to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team Be comfortable undertaking practical and physically demanding work Be willing to work outdoors throughout the year in varying weather conditions Be professional and well-presented when working within the private estate environment Have a reliable means of travelling to and from the estate and college due to both rural locations

Training:
Horticulture or Landscape Construction Operative Level 2 Day release during term time to Sparsholt College

Training Outcome:

Our aim is to develop an apprentice who can become a valued member of the estate team and on successful completion of the apprenticeship may lead to a permanent full-time position.

Employer Description:

Private Estate

Working Hours :
40-hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm, with a morning break and 30-minute lunch break.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Team working,Initiative,Physical fitness