Introduction
This is a one-year course of paid work experience with academic studies within the Glass Department at RHS Garden Wisley.
The programme provides an unrivalled opportunity to learn within an extensive and varied collection of plants and to work with, and learn from, the garden and scientific staff, who have collectively and individually a vast array of expertise and knowledge.
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 trainee is based in the Glass Department and assists with the orchid section.
In addition to this the successful student assists the Orchid Committee Secretary at each of the Society's flower shows at Vincent Square and RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the British Orchid Growers Association show.
During the year there may be opportunities for placement at the Eric Young Orchid Foundation, Jersey, and a commercial orchid nursery in the UK.
The orchid trainee is expected to carry out the following coursework:
- Keep a detailed work log
- Produce a management report
- 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.
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 Glasshouse Technique with Orchid Culture takes account of the trainee gardener's practical performance in the Glass 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.