Introduction
This is a one-year course of paid work experience with academic studies at the Wisley Plant Centre.
The programme provides an unrivalled opportunity to learn within an extensive and varied collection of plants and to work with, and learn from, the Plant Centre and garden 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 student is based at the Wisley Plant Centre, during which they rotate through the various departments including Shrubs, EPOS office, houseplants/bedding plants, display, herbaceous and sundries/bulbs.
Skills learnt include day-to-day stock control and display, customer care, housekeeping standards and expectations, how EPOS relates to the Plant Centre, losses and loss management.
Other sources of learning include visits to suppliers, competitors and shows, weekly Plant Centre meetings and training sessions.
The Plant Centre trainee is expected to carry out the following coursework:
- Keep a diary
- Write a dissertation
- Prepare a management case study
- 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 Plant Centre Management Skills takes account of the trainee gardener's practical performance in the Plant Centre 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.