Introduction
This is a one-year course of paid work experience with academic studies within the Estate Department at RHS Garden Wisley.
The programme provides an unrivalled opportunity to gain experience from working within the extensive and varied collections of plants and trees at RHS Garden Wisley.
The Estate Department is responsible for running and managing the estate as a whole, and has responsibilities within the garden for the upkeep of turfed areas, hedges, roadways and irrigation system among other things.
In General
Each September, one candidate is accepted into this position.
Remuneration is currently £13,056 per year, paid monthly.
Find out more about accommodation, facilities and social life.
Course Content
The Arboriculture Student is based in the Wisley Estate Department and works closely with the Arborist, but will be required to assist with other estate-based duties as directed.
In addition to this the successful student assists the Woody Plant Committee Secretary at each of the Society's flower shows at Vincent Square and Chelsea.
The trainee is expected to carry out the following coursework:
- Keep a detailed work log
- Produce a case study
- Write a dissertation
- Undertake fortnightly plant identification tests and produce a P&D report
It is anticipated that a sandwich year student will have college/university projects to complete and these will be set against RHS commitments where appropriate.
Eligibility
Applicants are expected as a minimum to hold a National Certificate in Horticulture, an RHS Level 2 in Horticulture, or similar. Additionally applicants should also have some practical horticultural experience in a professional environment.
The successful candidate will have CS30, CS31, Certificate of Competence to Climb Trees and Perform Aerial Rescue and a full UK driving license.
Applicants from overseas are considered, and acceptance is subject to a Work Permit being granted for non-EU nationals.
A good working knowledge of the English language is essential, and evidence to that effect will be requested.
Assessment
Consideration for the award of Specialist Option Certificate in Arboriculture and Estate Management takes account of the trainee gardener's practical performance in the Estate Department and success in the coursework.
Applications
Applications must be made by 31 January in the year of anticipated entry. Positions will be advertised on our job vacancies page from October of the previous year with job description and application form attached.