Senior Gardener

Overview

Are you an experienced horticulturist looking for an exciting new challenge? This could be the perfect opportunity for you. We are seeking a dedicated and skilled gardener to join our team at Woolbeding Gardens, one of the National Trust’s most inspiring gardens.

Woolbeding Gardens is a 20th-century garden with 21st features including the Woolbeding Glasshouse and Silk Route Garden designed by Heatherwick Studios. The Silk Route Garden is like no other within the National Trust offering a unique planting based on the trading route from China to Europe.

This role focuses on the Silk Route Garden and the iconic Woolbeding Glasshouse, designed by Heatherwick Studios. The garden celebrates the historic trade route from China to Europe and offers a unique and diverse plant collection set within the wider 30-acre garden.

• Lead the day-to-day care and maintenance of the Silk Route Garden and Glasshouse.
• Ensure the highest standards of horticulture and plant health.
• Provide guidance, training, and motivation to staff and volunteers.
• Engage with visitors, sharing the story of the garden and enhancing their experience.

Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert.

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the development and care of one of the National Trust’s most modern gardens. If you are ready to lead by example and inspire others, we would love to hear from you.

Applications from redeployees are assessed against the minimum criteria for the role. In your application, please provide details of how you meet the minimum criteria below:

• Practical horticulture and plant care knowledge
• Team supervision and volunteer support experience
• Ability to operate and maintain garden machinery in line with health and safety standards.
• Understanding of project and programme delivery
• Resource and budget awareness
• Ability to engage visitors and external stakeholders to promote garden work and enhance public understanding

Additional criteria for all other applicants:

• someone who combines practical experience in horticulture with appropriate qualifications
• aware of relevant health and safety legislation and practices

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We  working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It  important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we  for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme
• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria
• Flexible working whenever possible
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking at most Trust places