At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate and facilitate engaging horticultural workshops for adults with learning disabilities.
- Company: Join Affinity Trust at the vibrant Englefield Garden Centre.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, health plans, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing lives through gardening.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while nurturing your passion for horticulture.
- Qualifications: Horticultural qualifications and experience in a garden centre are essential.
The predicted salary is between 33151 - 40517 £ per year.
Location: Englefield Estate, near Theale, Reading RG7 5ES
Contract Type: Part Time
Working Hours: 13.5
Closing Date: 15/09/2026
Required: Relevant Horticulture qualification & previous horticultural experience within a Garden Centre or plant nursery setting is essential. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Affinity Trust has a strong reputation for creating innovative projects enabling adults with learning disabilities the opportunity to enhance life skills and enjoy an invaluable occupation. Located on Englefield Estate, Englefield Garden Centre is the home of such a project. Selling over 150,000 plants a year, Englefield is not only a thriving garden centre but also runs horticultural workshop programmes for people with Learning Disabilities and Autism. The programme engages participants in horticultural activities that promote improved health and wellbeing, increased confidence and enhanced practical and social skills.
The group takes on a range of activities, including the development of the centre's plants and helping the Garden Centre meet the demands of an increasing customer base. We currently have 2 part-time Workshop Coordinator and Facilitator roles available:
- Role 1 – 13.5 hours per week working Monday and Tuesday
- Role 2 – 11.5 hours per week working Thursday and Friday
As a Workshop Coordinator & Facilitator, you will work collaboratively with the Garden Centre Manager to understand who is attending workshops, what tasks the group will complete, facilitate on your working days, and provide job mentoring to the attendees. While this will be your primary role, you may also be asked to work as part of the wider team supporting the successful day-to-day running of the Garden Centre, meeting the needs of our customers and supporting the profitability and success of the Garden Centre.
What do I need?
- Relevant Horticultural qualifications
- Previous horticultural experience within a similar setting is essential
- Previous experience supporting people with Learning disabilities and Autism
This role requires a very practical & hands-on approach. You will need to have a flexible approach to work and be able to adapt to lots of different situations and roles within your normal day. You must be prepared to try new ideas and in return, you will be part of a team committed to providing excellent support to people with learning disabilities within an established and thriving Garden Centre.
Additional Benefits:
- Buy & sell annual leave
- Access pay as you earn via Stream
- Fully funded health plan via Simply Health (GP, dental, optical)
- Pension & Life Assurance
An enhanced DBS check is required (paid for by us). We're committed to being Disability Confident, and we guarantee to interview all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.
Garden Centre Workshop Coordinator & Facilitator - Englefield, Reading in Theale employer: Affinity Trust
Affinity Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. Located in the beautiful area of Wells/Street, Somerset, we offer a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth through comprehensive training and development opportunities, including NVQ Level 2 in Health & Social Care. Our commitment to staff well-being is reflected in our attractive benefits package, which includes a subsidised health plan and pension scheme, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about empowering others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Garden Centre Workshop Coordinator & Facilitator - Englefield, Reading in Theale
✨Get Involved with Local Gardening Groups
Join local horticulture clubs or community gardens. It's a fantastic way to meet people in the industry, learn about available part-time opportunities, and get tips on what local businesses like Affinity Trust are looking for.
✨Attend Horticulture Fairs and Events
Keep an eye out for gardening fairs, farmers’ markets, or plant festivals in your area. Not only can you learn a lot, but these events often have job boards or local employers looking to hire part-time help.
✨Leverage Social Media for Opportunities
Follow local horticulture accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. There are often postings about part-time jobs that might not make it to traditional job boards, plus you can connect with other enthusiasts who might have the inside scoop on openings at places like Affinity Trust.
✨Tap into Your University’s Resources
If you're a student, your university might have links with local horticulture firms. Check out your career services; they might list part-time opportunities with companies like Affinity Trust that are specifically looking for students eager to gain experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Garden Centre Workshop Coordinator & Facilitator - Englefield, Reading in Theale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:When applying for a part-time job in horticulture at Affinity Trust, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with plants, gardening, or landscape maintenance. If you've got a knack for nurturing plants or knowledge about different species, don’t keep it a secret—let it shine in your CV!
Include Certifications and Courses:If you've completed any horticulture-related certifications or courses, be sure to list them in your application. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you're serious about your passion for plants. If you’ve got any coursework on plant biology or sustainable practices, include that too!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Affinity Trust:In your cover letter, make sure to express why you want to work specifically with Affinity Trust. Are they known for their beautiful gardens or innovative horticultural practices? Mention these points and how they resonate with your own interests and experiences—this shows genuine enthusiasm and helps you stand out.
Flexibility Matters:Since you're aiming for a part-time role, emphasise your availability in your application. Whether you can work weekends, evenings, or even during peak seasons, make it clear! Flexibility can be a huge plus, so highlight how you can fit into the team at Affinity Trust and support their needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Affinity Trust
✨Know Your Plants
As we're diving into horticulture, it’s crucial to brush up on your plant knowledge. Be ready to discuss different species, their care requirements, and maybe even tackle some plant identification questions. Having a few examples of your past gardening experiences or plant projects can really show your passion and expertise!
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Since this is a part-time gig, your practical skills might be just as important as your theoretical knowledge. Think about any previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects related to gardening or landscaping. Highlight those experiences in your answers – showing what you've physically done can leave a strong impression.
✨Seasonal Awareness is Key
In horticulture, understanding the seasons and how they affect plant behaviour is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach gardening tasks at different times of the year, and share your approach to seasonal planting or maintenance strategies – it'll show your practical understanding of the field!
✨Bring Your Tools (and Portfolio!)
If you have a portfolio showcasing your previous work, such as photos of gardens you've designed or maintained, definitely bring it along. For a part-time role, sharing your creative ideas and how you use tools for different tasks can set you apart. It's about showing how you can bring value to Affinity Trust with your unique skills and passion!
