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- Tasks: Join a team to maintain stunning botanical gardens and learn diverse horticultural skills.
- Company: Work at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, home to over 40,000 plants in Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, holiday entitlement, pension scheme, and discounts on travel.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a world-renowned garden and boost your plant knowledge with expert guidance.
- Qualifications: A passion for plants and teamwork; gardening experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity to kickstart your horticultural career in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 23556 - 23657 £ per year.
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Job Reference: HCC621442
Salary Range: £23,556 – £23,657 per annum
Work Location: Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Temporary 12 months
Closing Date: 18 July 2025
Interview Date: 1 August 2025
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a 12 month work and learn position in our World renown botanical Gardens in the heart of the Hampshire countryside. The Gardens hold some of the country’s most rare hardy trees and shrubs and boasts a collection of over 40,000 plants, including 14 national plant collections. On a site of 180 acres with many different biomes. From a winter garden and pinetum to ponds, a Himalayan valley and woodlands of flowering trees and shrubs. The perfect place to learn to be a fully rounded gardener.
The Role:
You would work as part of a team of garden staff who help to maintain this large botanic and ornamental gardens. Moving between the three teams, on a rota and learning from each of the horticulturally diverse areas.
You will also take part in a range of workshops on a wide variety of horticultural skills and take part in weekly plant identification sessions, to booster your plant knowledge. As a trainee, you will visit other collections and gardens and be involved in the setup of floral displays and exhibit gardens at major shows.
What you’ll do:
Approach all learning opportunities with a positive attitude and gain as much skill in given tasks as possible.
Take as much information as possible from the training sessions and workshops that are scheduled and from your daily work with experienced colleagues.
You are expected to work in all weathers.
What we’re looking for:
Someone with a positive attitude and a desire to progress in the field of horticulture.
– A passion for plants.
– Physically fit for this demanding roll.
– Some experience in gardening or similar (qualifications not essential).
– At least some basic plant knowledge.
– Ability to work with others, with a team.
A very rare opportunity to work and learn.
Many trainees have gone on to positions in gardens around the country and abroad.
The chance to work in one of the world’s largest collections of hardy tree and shrubs.
Highly improve you plant knowledge and understanding of the botanical sciences.
Learn how the professional flower shows work and how you can play your part.
Integrate with a highly skilled team of horticulturalist and learn best practice techniques.
Our benefits package includes details of the holiday entitlement, pension scheme, flexi-time scheme, family friendly policies and interest free travel loans and discounts. We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of, where you are empowered to be your best and a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.
If you think you have what it takes to make a real difference in Hampshire, get in touch!
Additional Information:
Junior Horticulturalist (Trainee) Candidate Pack
Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:
Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.
We are a Disability Confident Employer – committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.
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Horticultural Student employer: Shared Services Partnership
Contact Detail:
Shared Services Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticultural Student
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plants and collections at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Knowing about their rare hardy trees and shrubs will show your genuine interest in the role and help you stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local horticultural communities or online forums to discuss plant care and gardening techniques. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your passion for horticulture when speaking with the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss any previous gardening experiences, even if informal. Highlighting your hands-on experience, no matter how small, can illustrate your commitment and readiness to learn in a professional setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Show enthusiasm for teamwork and collaboration. Since the role involves working closely with others, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, which will align with what they're looking for in a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Horticultural Student
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Horticultural Student position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with what the company is looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your passion for horticulture and any relevant experience you have, even if it's informal. Emphasise your teamwork abilities and any basic plant knowledge you possess.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to learn in a renowned botanical garden. Mention specific aspects of the job that excite you and how you can contribute positively to the team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shared Services Partnership
✨Show Your Passion for Plants
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for horticulture during the interview. Share any personal experiences you have with gardening or plant care, as this will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your basic plant knowledge and gardening skills. Brush up on common plants, their care requirements, and any relevant techniques you've learned. This will show that you're ready to learn and contribute.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with a team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past experiences where you worked as part of a team, especially in challenging situations.
✨Demonstrate a Positive Attitude
The job requires a positive approach to learning and working in all weather conditions. Convey your willingness to embrace challenges and your eagerness to grow in the field of horticulture.
