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- Tasks: Support the management of a historic estate and develop your gardening skills.
- Company: Join The National Trust for Scotland, a leader in conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for skill development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on preserving a unique garden while enhancing visitor experiences.
- Qualifications: Passion for gardening and some experience in estate work.
- Other info: Great chance to develop leadership skills in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 24900 - 28700 £ per year.
Assistant Head Gardener, The National Trust for Scotland – Forres
Join to apply for the Assistant Head Gardener, The National Trust for Scotland – Forres role at DYW (Developing the Young Workforce) Moray
Salary range £29,975 – £33,095 per year
Duration: Permanent, Full-time
Location: Forres
Closing Date: Sunday 12th October 2025
Key Purpose
We’re looking for someone with heaps of passion and a solid foundation in garden and estate work. This role is ideal for someone looking to develop their skills by supporting the management of a unique and nationally-recognised estate with significant historic importance. Working here, you’ll contribute to the preservation and conservation of this special place, while working to develop new opportunities that will enhance its enjoyment by visitors. As Assistant Head Gardener, you’ll act as a deputy for the Garden and Estate Manager in their absence, allowing you to develop leadership skills on the job.
Key Responsibilities
- The Key Purposes of the job will be met by: the Garden and Estate Manager to ensure the conservation and practical maintenance of the garden and wider policies – whether through delegation to other staff/volunteers, or personal participation – in terms of:
- and development of the internationally significant Brodie Daffodil Collection.
- (e.g. managing trees and shrubs, herbaceous plants, half-hardy perennials, annuals and bulbs; turf care; pest/disease/weed control; composting and soil improvement; hard-landscaping; path care, polytunnel care and plant propagation of vegetables, herbs, along with maintaining biosecurity.
- (e.g. the identification, knowledge and understanding of this plant collection, including recording and labelling using IrisBG database of individual plants and recognised collections).
- (eg. research into historical precedents and practical contemporary solutions to inform proposed activities and projects; support to the design and implementation of restoration and/or development projects).
- (eg through the development and delivery of events such as introductory talks, weekly guided tours or practical demonstrations, contribution to guidebooks or leaflets).
- an appropriate management regime of the garden and policies that includes the management of: (assisting with recruitment, induction, direction, development and performance management) such that they are fully equipped, organised and motivated to undertake their duties to the required Trust standards.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Contact us at brodiecastle@nts.org.uk
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Management and Manufacturing
Industries
- Non-profit Organizations
Apply online
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Assistant Head Gardener, The National Trust for Scotland - Forres employer: DYW (Developing the Young Workforce) Moray
Contact Detail:
DYW (Developing the Young Workforce) Moray Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head Gardener, The National Trust for Scotland - Forres
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research The National Trust for Scotland and their values. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to gardening and estate management. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head Gardener, The National Trust for Scotland - Forres
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your love for gardening and conservation shine through in your application. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about preserving and enhancing our beautiful estate.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the role. We’re looking for someone with a solid foundation in garden work, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in plant management and estate maintenance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your leadership potential and ability to work with a team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The National Trust for Scotland.
How to prepare for a job interview at DYW (Developing the Young Workforce) Moray
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your knowledge of the Brodie Daffodil Collection and other key plants relevant to the role. Being able to discuss specific species, their care, and historical significance will show your passion and expertise.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've taken charge in previous roles or projects. Highlight any experience you have in managing teams or volunteers, as this will be crucial for the Assistant Head Gardener position.
✨Understand Conservation Practices
Familiarise yourself with conservation techniques and policies that are important to The National Trust for Scotland. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the estate.
✨Engage with Visitor Experience
Think about ways to enhance visitor enjoyment through events or educational talks. Prepare ideas on how you could contribute to guidebooks or leaflets, showcasing your creativity and commitment to public engagement.