Introduction
This is a one-year course of paid work experience with academic studies within the Floral 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 staffs, 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 successful candidate is employed as a trainee gardener and work experience is provided within the Floral Department at RHS Garden Wisley.
Considerable emphasis is placed on the ability to work alongside trained horticulturists in performing a wide range of practical horticultural skills.
The ornamental trainee is required to assist with various administrative tasks at the Society's monthly shows at Vincent Square and Chelsea. This gives an opportunity to view the exhibits and gain experience in this important and unique facet of the Society's activities.
The trainee is expected to carry out the following coursework:
- Write a dissertation
- Produce a work diary
- Prepare a departmental management report
- Undertake fortnightly plant identification tests
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 Ornamental Horticulture takes account of the trainee gardener's practical performance in the Floral 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.