RHS Professional Work Placements

These one-year placements are aimed at those with an existing horticultural qualification and practical experience who wish to specialise

It is suitable for applicants who are completing or have completed a horticultural theory qualification at Level 2 (or equivalent) and have 3 months practical experience in the industry.

Earn while you learn

Professional Work Placements are paid at or above the National Minimum Wage, which is reviewed annually by the government.

Complete an RHS Level 3 Award (equivalent to an A Level)

Whilst on your placement you will be supported to undertake a unique piece of research and write up your findings. The research and write up will be submitted for you to achieve an RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation.

• Placements will be confirmed when recruitment opens in Spring 2026
• Each placement provides the opportunity to spend a full year immersed in a particular garden department, studying a specific group of plants, garden practice or style whilst completing a Level 3 Award
• Below are some of the specialities offered across the gardens

• Spend one full year working in a particular garden department; studying a specific group of plants, garden practice or style, and experiencing the garden at different times of the year.
• Receive training in your specialism, in a work-based context, from our experienced and knowledgeable staff.
• Complete an accredited Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation.
• Train at a prestigious RHS garden gaining the experience and skills to prepare you for professional life in the industry.

PWPs are employed on a one-year fixed-term contract.

• This is a full-time work-based training programme (37.5 hours per week on rota). The rota is 5 in 7 so the full time hours will include some weekend working
• Unfortunately, we are unable to offer our PWPs on a part-time basis

Practical learning takes place in the garden through on the job training, working alongside our experienced and knowledgeable staff.

During the placement you will complete horticultural research and writing culminating in achieving an RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation (funded by the RHS).
 
Candidates completing the Level 3 qualification will be allocated a Project Supervisor who will support you and advise on the project write up. In order to achieve the qualification you will be required to attend several online sessions (either live or recordings) over a period of 9 months, submit a project write up and complete a professional discussion.
 

In order to achieve the qualification, you will be expected to:

• Record workplace learning in the form of plant and skills profiles linked to the specialism
• Attend online sessions (either live or recorded) during the placement
• Complete and submit a project report as evidence for the RHS Level 3 Award qualification. The project gives learners the opportunity to research a specific area of interest and showcase their learning
• Complete a professional discussion

• Professional Work Placements must find their own way to work, however, each garden will have flexibility in enabling access around public transport
• On site accommodation is available at RHS Gardens Rosemoor and Wisley (for a deduction in your gross salary), the accommodation comprises of single rooms with shared kitchen and lounge facilities

Want to know more? See our frequently asked questions.

The RHS New Shoots initiative aims to increase the diversity of people entering horticulture as a profession. In this context, New Shoots offers top-up scholarships to RHS apprentices and learners on the RHS Professional Work Placements (who are not offered on site accommodation) to support with accommodation or transport. If you are successfully offered and accept a position the New Shoots team will contact your to discuss your eligibility. Find out if you could be eligible.