At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Gardens Department to maintain beautiful grounds and learn essential horticulture skills.
- Company: Clare College, a progressive and inclusive Cambridge University College.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, lunch, pension scheme, medical cashback, and potential bonuses.
- Other info: Fixed term contract with excellent career development opportunities in a historic setting.
- Why this job: Perfect for gardening enthusiasts eager to learn and grow in a stunning environment.
- Qualifications: A passion for gardening and a willingness to learn new skills.
The predicted salary is between 25940 - 25940 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic team player to join the Gardens Department as Horticulture Apprentice.
Working within the well established and beautiful grounds of Clare College, the successful candidate will work as part of the team responsible for the maintenance of the College’s Gardens including all trees, shrubs and cultivated areas to a high standard comparable to the best of the Cambridge Colleges.
This will include 20% off-site learning which may take place at other sites such as training college or other Cambridge University College gardens.
This is a fixed term contract for two years. The hours of work will be 40 hours per week during Spring/Summer and 35 hours per week during Autumn/Winter.
- To work with the garden team including all greenhouse work, raising seeds, cuttings and bulbs.
- Learn how to maintain and care of the herbaceous borders, pruning trees and shrubs.
- Learn how to work on machines and mowers.
- To carry out edging of lawns, clipping hedges, sweeping and cutting of rough grass.
This role is ideal for someone who has a love of gardening, is keen to learn new skills and be part of a team of gardeners.
Clare is the second oldest of the 31 Colleges in the University of Cambridge.
Regarded as one of the most progressive and informal, Clare is renowned as a College that achieves academically at the highest levels, whilst also being welcoming, forward-thinking, and inclusive.
Located in the heart of Cambridge city centre, the College is extraordinarily beautiful and famed for its gardens on “the Backs” (the famous backs of the Colleges that overlook the River Cam).
Clare’s Old Court, a Grade I listed building, is the centre of the College and is unique among the ancient Cambridge Colleges in having maintained its architectural integrity over the course of its history.
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary will be £25,940 p. a.
- Included in the benefits package is lunch, membership of a defined contribution pension scheme, membership of a medical cashback scheme, parking, and non-contractual bonus paid in November of each year subject to eligibility.
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Horticulture Apprentice in Cambridge employer: Clare College Cambridge
Clare College Cambridge is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a historic and beautiful setting at the heart of Cambridge. With a commitment to staff development, a supportive work culture, and competitive benefits including a contributory pension scheme and annual bonuses, we prioritise employee wellbeing and engagement. Join us in fostering an inclusive environment that values your contributions and supports your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Horticulture Apprentice in Cambridge
✨Get Hands-On at Local Gardens
Dive into your local horticulture scene! Volunteer at community gardens or local parks to gain practical experience and meet professionals in the field. This not only builds your skills but also expands your network, making you more visible to potential employers like Clare College Cambridge.
✨Join Horticulture Societies
Research and join horticulture societies and clubs in your area. These groups often host workshops, events, and networking opportunities that can connect you directly with companies looking for apprentices, like Clare College Cambridge. Plus, you'll get to learn from seasoned pros in a relaxed environment.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb Online
Create a garden blog or an Instagram account to share your horticulture journey. Post about plants you’re working with, gardening tips, or even your experiences at local events. This will not only showcase your passion but also draw attention from potential employers, including Clare College Cambridge.
✨Apply Early and Keep It Local
Apprenticeships in horticulture can fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Make sure to check for openings on our website regularly, and consider walking into garden centres or nurseries to inquire about opportunities directly. A friendly chat can sometimes go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Horticulture Apprentice in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, we like to see your passion for plants and the outdoors. Whether it’s a garden project or a few houseplants you’ve nurtured, include any practical experience and why it inspires you in your application. It’s all about demonstrating your love for the industry!
Highlight Your Learning Potential:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to know how eager you are to learn and grow. In your cover letter, make sure to discuss what you hope to gain from this role and how it fits into your career goals in horticulture. Show us your enthusiasm for lifelong learning!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certificates related to gardening, horticulture, or environmental studies, throw them into your application mix! These little nuggets help us see that you’ve got a solid foundation and commitment to the field, making you a more appealing candidate.
Keep It Personal and Passionate:When applying, remember to speak from the heart. Share personal stories or experiences related to horticulture that shaped your interest. We love seeing authentic passion, so let it shine through in your writing. And hey, don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clare College Cambridge
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Make sure to brush up on your plant knowledge! During the interview, we might get into some technical questions about plant care, soil types, or pest management. Have some examples ready from your gardening experience or coursework that show how you’ve dealt with various horticultural challenges.
✨Bring Your Own Garden Portfolio
Since this is an apprenticeship, showcasing your passion can really set you apart. Create a small portfolio with pictures of your gardening projects, plants you've nurtured, or any relevant coursework. This hands-on evidence of your enthusiasm will definitely impress the folks at Clare College Cambridge.
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Familiarise yourself with the tools and techniques used in horticulture. Whether it's knowing how to use a spade correctly or understanding the basics of propagation, don’t be afraid to mention any specific tools you've used in the past. This will show that you're not just book-smart but also hands-on ready for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your eagerness to learn is just as important as your current knowledge. We need to convey your motivation during the interview, so reflect on what excites you about horticulture and how you're keen to grow (pun intended!) in this role at Clare College Cambridge. Share any instances where you took the initiative to learn, whether through volunteering or extra courses.
