At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage growing spaces and support participants in the Food for Thought Programme.
- Company: Lambourne End Centre, a vibrant charity with a focus on personal development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, scenic location, and opportunities to make a difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for evening and weekend work.
- Why this job: Empower young people while working in a beautiful rural setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in horticulture and working with diverse groups.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 26000 £ per year.
Lambourne End Centre is looking for a Garden Instructor to work alongside the rest of the team; to manage the growing spaces and work on a daily basis with participants of the Food for Thought Programme, providing support and technical horticultural supervision.
The Centre is a fantastic 54 acre site in south west Essex which is full of opportunity. The Centre’s scenic location in a rural setting, yet on the doorstep of East London’s urban fringe creates a unique resource. The Centre boasts residential accommodation and training facilities, outdoor adventure activities, a garden project and a working farm with dedicated environmental areas. These are used to generate a wide range of programmes which promote and deliver personal development opportunities for young people, especially those at risk or struggling in traditional mainstream environments. All the programmes are designed to encourage team building, problem solving and communication skills, as well as build confidence and raise aspirations.
The Food for Thought programme provides a supportive environment which helps people develop practical and life skills whilst gaining confidence, increasing self-esteem and feeling valued. Food for Thought participants are (largely) young people who may have special educational needs, poor mental health including anxiety, or low confidence, and those needing assistance with transition into adulthood.
Suitable candidates should have:
- Experience of managing allotment style growing spaces (including inside growing spaces)
- The ability to plan a growing schedule that fully utilises the growing season and provides regular work throughout the year, ensuring that there is a regular flow of produce into the Centre’s Farm Shop
- Experience of working with people with learning disabilities, learning difficulties and those living with poor mental health
- Knowledge of organic gardening and permaculture
The post is based on a 35 hour week and may involve some evening and weekend working. Due to the nature of the work, the post will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
The closing date for applications is Tuesday 31st March 2026; applications should be received no later than 1pm. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held on Wednesday 8th April 2026.
For more information about the Centre and the activities it runs please see our website www.lambourne-end.org.uk or phone 020 8500 3047.
Garden Instructor - Essex employer: Institute for Outdoor Learning
Lambourne End Centre is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a scenic 54-acre rural setting in Essex, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people through the Food for Thought Programme. With a strong focus on personal development, team building, and environmental sustainability, the Centre fosters a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and collaboration among staff. Employees benefit from engaging in diverse programmes, outdoor activities, and the chance to develop their horticultural skills while contributing to a cause that truly values community and individual empowerment.
Contact Details:
Institute for Outdoor Learning Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Garden Instructor - Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Lambourne End Centre inside out! Familiarise yourself with their programmes, especially the Food for Thought initiative. This will help you connect your skills and experiences directly to what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through community groups. They can provide insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can demonstrate your experience with managing growing spaces and working with young people. Have some examples ready that showcase your skills in organic gardening and supporting those with learning difficulties.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team at Lambourne End Centre.
We think you need these skills to ace Garden Instructor - Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening:When writing your application, let your love for gardening shine through! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm and knowledge about horticulture. We want to see how you connect with the growing spaces!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to align your skills and experiences with what we’re looking for in a Garden Instructor. Highlight your experience managing allotment-style spaces and working with young people, especially those with special educational needs. This will show us you’re the right fit for our team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can find more info about the Centre and what we do there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Outdoor Learning
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your knowledge of organic gardening and permaculture. Be ready to discuss your experience managing growing spaces and how you can apply that to the Food for Thought programme. Showing your passion for horticulture will definitely impress the interviewers.
✨Connect with the Mission
Understand the Centre's mission and the specific needs of the participants. Think about how your skills can help young people develop confidence and life skills. Sharing personal anecdotes or experiences related to this can really resonate with the interview panel.
✨Plan for the Growing Season
Prepare a sample growing schedule that demonstrates your ability to maximise the growing season. This shows initiative and gives the interviewers a clear idea of how you would manage the garden effectively throughout the year.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Since you'll be working with individuals who may have learning disabilities or mental health challenges, be ready to discuss your experience in this area. Highlight any previous roles where you've supported similar groups, and share strategies you've used to build rapport and trust.
