Horticulture Apprentice - Level 2

Our gardens are heritage sites, and homes to the most extensive plant collection in Europe, and our gardeners are responsible for the conservation and development of plant collections and the gardens to increasing numbers of members and visitors. Our gardens are much loved and visited from far and wide by many and you’ll be part of the team of professionals caring for all aspects of the heritage gardens in the portfolio.

Blickling is an extraordinary place, a historic country estate with deep-rooted ties to the pastoral Norfolk landscape. The gardens are 55 acres, including an Walled Garden, Parterre and Wilderness housing gardens of seasonal interest. You will be working in a team of six gardeners. The role includes the opportunity to work in one of the finest National Trust Gardens in the Country. You will work with the team delivering a broad range of tasks that includes growing of fruit and vegetables, creating compost in our fabulous compost bays, maintaining large herbaceous borders, woodland gardening, lawn care and maintenance, care and maintenance of a collection of large topiary including our famous front hedges.    

Training:

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 with some overnight stays to expand your learning and experience. You’ll also be able to join other training events and learn from industry colleagues internally and externally.

Working alongside your mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, you’ll develop the skills & knowledge relevant to this apprenticeship standard. (Horticulture or landscape construction operative level 2).

You’ll attend and prepare for regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression. You’ll be required to complete mandatory e-learning, courses and training provided.

Training Outcome:

This role can lead to an Assistant Gardener or Gardener role, and you could potentially move to a Level 3 Horticulture Supervisor apprenticeship after additional experience gained in role.

Employer Description:
We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. We look after hundreds of houses and close to a million objects, along with vast areas of coastline, countryside and green spaces, for everyone’s benefit. With our staff, members, volunteers and supporters, we’re the biggest conservation charity in Europe. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference.

Working Hours :
Full Time 37.5 hours per week to 12/05/27, shifts TBC.

Skills:
Communication skills,Team working,Physical fitness