Summary

If you want a career in Gardening, we can offer you some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the UK to work in as well as one of the largest plant collections in Europe.

What it's like to work here

This country house, romantic garden and fairy-tale castle are set within a beautiful wooded estate. Scotney Castle is a big growth property in the region, with the team working to improve the visitor experience and facilities. Family-friendly activities at the site include a natural play trail, den building and summer adventures. You'll need your own transport to get here, however this is an exciting time to join the team within a fast-changing and innovative location.

There are regular garden tours for visitors to get involved in and a beautiful walled garden selling local produce and plants. This is A Site of Special Scientific Interest with green-winged orchids and rare plants abound in the wild grass meadows.

What you'll be doing

As a hands-on Gardener, you’ll assist in making sure that the gardens are maintained to a high standard. You’ll be passionate and enthused and knowledgeable about the varied plants within the garden. This role will include a range of practical horticultural tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. You'll be helping with hard and soft landscaping and general maintenance of the garden, such as mulching, pruning, leaf clearing and weeding. You’ll support with the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants. You’ll be helping to cut the hedges and mow our fine lawns. You’ll also take ownership of specific areas of the garden ensuring the highest standards are maintained and healthy plants are available for our visitors to enjoy.

You’ll also support garden volunteers and help them to make the most of their time here. You’ll be expected to interact with the public on a daily basis, answering the many questions, or help out with gardening workshops, tours and helping set up events when needed.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert

Who we're looking for

To be successful in this role you should be able to demonstrate the below:

• Trained as a professional gardener/horticulturalist with a good level of practical experience.

• RHS Level 2 or equivalent.

• Have proven practical gardening/horticulture experience, as well as a strong knowledge of plants

• Confidence to participate in garden activities and events

• Competence with machinery/equipment use and maintenance; including tractors, chainsaws, and pedestrian mowers with accreditation as required for Health and Safety compliance.

The package

Benefits for working at the National Trust:

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Free parking at most locations

• Discounts in high street stores, cinemas, National Trust properties and cafes.

• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Generous annual leave

• Subsidised health cash plan

• Free 24-hour support service

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Training & Development tailored to you
• Up to 5 days of paid volunteering for you.