Learner life at RHS Gardens

Training away from home can be daunting, so here is some information to help you decide

Apprentice gardeners working in the gardens

Accommodation

Diploma students and Professional Work Placements (PWPs) based at RHS Garden Wisley have shared, self-catering accommodation provided in Wisley village. This consists of shared housing of between two to five people. Each student has a single study bedroom and access to a shared lounge and kitchen/dining facilities. Shared accommodation is also available for PWPs on-site at RHS Garden Rosemoor. The cost of RHS accommodation is deducted from remuneration.

There is currently no accommodation available for PWPs at RHS Gardens Bridgewater, Harlow Carr or Hyde Hall. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide apprentices with accommodation at any of our RHS Gardens.

Study support

All learners have access to the Library/Reading Room and IT facilities on all sites. Most importantly, all learners have access to RHS Advisory and Scientific staff and their plant expertise at each site. These RHS staff are able to support and guide our learners with their knowledge and with the specific skills required to complete their training in the gardens.

Opportunities and networks

Visits to RHS Shows and trips to gardens mean that our learners enjoy a great breadth of horticultural experience, and have the opportunity to make excellent industry contacts.

Learners can also arrange their own study tours and have in the past been to the USA, Spain, Japan and many locations in the UK. Our Level 4 students work with external partners on their design and build project, and have the opportunity to gain external work experience elsewhere in the industry.


You might also be interested in...

  • Learner stories: See what our current and past learners have to say about their training at the RHS – read the stories
  • Supporters: Our work-based training programmes are only possible with funding from our supporters – find out about our supporters
  • Careers in horticulture: If you’re looking to change careers or just starting out, the world of horticulture has dozens of roles – explore more careers

Work-based training

Spend your days working with and learning from horticultural experts. Choose from a variety of opportunities specially designed to grow your skills.

Find out more

Courses & workshops

Learn a new skill or brush up on old ones with a workshop or short course with the RHS.

Find a course

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.