Factsheet

Professional Work Placements with the RHS

Become an expert in a specific group of plants, garden practice or style with our one-year programme of paid work experience to prepare you for professional life in the industry.
 
Throughout the placement you will gain knowledge, experience, skills and training in your chosen specialism in a work-based context and complete a Level 3 Award.

  • Spend a full-year immersed in a specific garden department to discover the seasonality of your chosen area of specialism
  • Assist in the day-to-day cultivation and maintenance tasks as part of your training and professional development
  • Work alongside inspiring horticultural experts in one of our five stunning RHS Gardens
  • Undertake a research project and complete the RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation

Frequently asked questions

Is the Professional Work Placement full-time?
Professional Work Placements are employed by the RHS on a one year (fixed-term) contract gaining knowledge and honing skills on the job. This is a full-time work-based training programme, the working week is 37.5 hours per week on rota. The rota is 5 in 7 so the full time hours will include some weekend working.
Will I get paid whilst training?
Yes the RHS ensure we pay all staff at or above the National Minimum Wage, so you can train with zero debt at the end of your contract. You will be provided with a uniform, and as a valued member of the team PWPs enjoy all the same benefits as full-time staff.
What can I do after I complete the Professional Work Placement (PWP)?
A Professional Work Placement gives you the knowledge and skills to step into employment – helping you find a position in the horticultural industry and/or become a specialist gardener. 

You could decide to continue your learning by completing further horticultural training or higher level qualifications, such as those at Level 3 or above. 
What support will I get?
In the workplace you will be mentored by qualified and experienced horticulturists with a passion for their craft.
 
To complete the RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation you will receive support from a Project Supervisor, whose role is to guide the creation and development of the final research report. 

You will also have access to ebooks, journals and databases from our RHS Libraries to help you carry out research and grow your knowledge
What are the entry requirements?
At application applicants should have completed (or be studying for) a Level 2 Horticultural theory qualification and have 3 months (minimum) outdoor practical experience in a professional horticultural environment. This equates to 65 days or 450 hours in total.
Will I gain a qualification at the end of the placement?

Although the placement itself is not a qualification, learners will be given the chance to complete an RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation (a formal qualification regulated by OFQUAL) as part of the placement.

Whilst on placement you will:    

  • Attend online lectures in work hours
  • Develop skills in problem solving, project management and communication
  • Choose to research a topic that is of relevance and interest to you or the placement speciality
  • Write up your research and findings as evidence for the RHS Level 3 Award in Horticultural Investigation qualification
Who can apply?
The RHS is an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Anyone can apply as long as you meet the above entry requirements and have the right to work in the UK. A good working knowledge of the English language is essential and evidence to that effect will be requested.
Where are the Professional Work Placements based?
Positions are available at all five of our RHS Gardens – Wisley in Surrey, Hyde Hall in Essex, Harlow Carr in Yorkshire, Rosemoor in Devon and Bridgewater near Greater Manchester.
What can count towards my practical experience ?
We are looking for practical experience in an outdoor garden setting, gained through paid or voluntary work and supported by a professional horticulturist. If you were self-employed, please confirm the type of work you completed and the number of days worked. We may request references from previous clients to verify your practical experience and skills.
How do I apply?

Once the Professional Work Placement positions are launched you apply through the ‘Apply Now’ links on the RHS Professional Work Placement webpage. Clicking these will take you to our application portal to create an account.
 
You will then be asked to upload the following:

  • A copy of your CV as a PDF or Word file. This should include your work history, any gaps in employment, qualifications achieved and any relevant interests, volunteering or hobbies. Please ensure you include the full title of any qualifications achieved and explain any gaps in employment on your CV.

Please note: applicants must not hold or be studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture or above.

  • A supporting statement describing your interest in the specialism and why you are a good choice for the placement. Applicants should use examples from their practical gardening or horticulture experiences to share their passion for plants

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.