At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain and develop outdoor spaces for youth learning and wellbeing.
- Company: Youth Options, dedicated to supporting at-risk children and young people.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, make a difference, and meet like-minded volunteers.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering hours available, with structured sessions on Tuesdays.
- Why this job: Contribute to a positive environment that inspires and supports young people.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for gardening and helping others.
Contract type: Part time
Location: Hounsdown School, Totton, Hampshire
Salary: Volunteer
Closes: 19/6/26
Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer with OLC Totton. Youth Options delivers targeted outdoor youth work and alternative provision programmes for children and young people who are at risk of disengagement from education, school exclusion, or social exclusion. Our Outdoor Learning Centres provide safe, welcoming outdoor environments that support learning, wellbeing and personal development.
As a Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer, you will support the care, upkeep and development of our Outdoor Learning Centre in Totton (based at Hounsdown School). Your practical work will help ensure outdoor spaces are safe, well-maintained and inviting for children, young people, staff and visitors.
This role focuses on hands-on gardening and site maintenance tasks and may involve working independently or alongside staff and other volunteers. Your contribution will directly support the delivery of outdoor learning, alternative provision and youth work activities by maintaining functional and inspiring outdoor spaces.
We welcome volunteers throughout the week, Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm. However, for those looking for a more structured and supervised volunteering we have a club on a Tuesday 10am – 2pm.
Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer - Hampshire employer: Institute for Outdoor Learning
OLC Totton is an exceptional employer that values the contributions of its volunteers, providing a supportive and inclusive work culture focused on personal development and community impact. Located at Hounsdown School in Totton, Hampshire, this role offers a unique opportunity to engage with children and young people while enhancing outdoor learning environments, fostering both individual growth and teamwork. Volunteers can expect a rewarding experience that not only benefits the community but also enriches their own skills and connections.
Contact Details:
Institute for Outdoor Learning Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer - Hampshire
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research OLC Totton and Youth Options to understand their mission and values. This will help you connect your passion for gardening and site maintenance with their goals during conversations.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers and staff on social media or community forums. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Visit the Outdoor Learning Centre, introduce yourself, and express your enthusiasm for volunteering. Showing initiative can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer - Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening:Let us know why you love gardening and site maintenance! Share any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for this role. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills align with the role. Mention specific tasks from the job description that excite you, so we can see you're genuinely interested in helping out at our Outdoor Learning Centre.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and bullet points if needed to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate brevity, especially when it comes to showcasing your skills!
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, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Institute for Outdoor Learning
✨Know Your Gardening Basics
Brush up on your gardening knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with common plants, maintenance techniques, and any specific gardening practices relevant to the role. This will show your passion and readiness to contribute.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working alongside staff and other volunteers, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of past experiences where you collaborated effectively, especially in outdoor or community settings. This will demonstrate that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific gardening tasks or site maintenance challenges. Think through scenarios in advance and be prepared to discuss your problem-solving approach. This will showcase your practical skills and readiness for the role.
✨Express Your Commitment to Youth Work
Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for supporting children and young people. Discuss any relevant experiences you've had in similar environments, and express your understanding of the importance of creating safe and inviting spaces for learning and development.
