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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a passionate team to maintain stunning gardens and landscapes at a historic site.
- Company: Be part of English Heritage, preserving England's rich history and beautiful gardens.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, career progression, and free access to all English Heritage sites.
- Why this job: Make a difference in nature while working in a vibrant, supportive environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 2 in horticulture or equivalent experience required.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About the role
Would you like to work for the charity that cares for hundreds of historic sites in every corner of England? With 14 main garden sites and dedicated garden teams, we are looking for a Gardener to join our team at Audley End House and Gardens, near Saffron Walden, Essex. This is a full‑time role working 36 hours per week. Audley End comprises a 100 acre garden and landscape. The front aspect of the House was designed by Capability Brown in 1763; there is a 1830s Parterre at the rear of the House combining shrub, herbaceous perennial and annual bedding plants; and a restored Victorian Kitchen Garden run to Soil Association organic standards.
Responsibilities
- You will be part of a garden team comprising 13 staff and 65 volunteers.
- This role will have split responsibilities in our wider landscape and ornamental gardens.
- You will be expected to:
- Operate garden machinery including pedestrian mowers, strimmers, hedgecutters, leaf blowers, a tractor, telehandler and cherrypicker.
- Assist with the active hot composting system, training to use the telehandler, tractor and compost machine.
- Work as part of the ornamental team to produce 2 bedding schemes each year and maintain and develop shrub and herbaceous borders across the site.
- Maintain and present the gardens to high standards, ensuring they are well‑maintained and welcoming to visitors.
Qualifications
- NVQ level 2 standard in amenity horticulture or equivalent.
- Previous experience working in a high‑quality horticultural establishment.
- Ability to work effectively and efficiently on your own or as part of a wider team.
Benefits
- Comprehensive training and CPD.
- Opportunity to progress your career.
- Flexible hours.
- Opportunities to attend live music and history events.
- Free access to all English Heritage sites for you, and up to six friends and family members.
- 25% discount in our shops and cafés.
- Corporate subscription/membership to gardening organisations.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity/shared parental leave.
- 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays pro‑rata, rising to 28 days after 3 years.
- Options to buy additional leave.
- Matched pension contributions up to 10%.
Diversity & Inclusion
We’re committed to making sure that English Heritage is an equitable, diverse and inclusive place to work. EDI networks are in place for Ethnic Diversity, Faith & Belief, Social Equity, LGBTQ+, Neurodivergence, Age, Disability and Gender Health and Wellbeing.
Wellbeing
We take wellbeing seriously and support a safe workplace with mental health first aiders, regular events, and an Employee Assistance Programme. Reasonable adjustments are available.
Contact
If you would like to talk to us about workplace adjustments or working patterns, please contact Louise Ellis, Head Gardener, at louise.ellis@english-heritage.org.uk. No agencies please.
Interview
Interviews will be held in early March in person at Audley End House.
Gardener in Saffron Walden employer: Landscaping Matters
Contact Detail:
Landscaping Matters Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gardener in Saffron Walden
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the place! Before your interview, take a stroll around Audley End House and Gardens if you can. Familiarising yourself with the site will not only impress the team but also help you understand the unique aspects of the gardens you'll be working in.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Be ready to discuss your experience with garden machinery and horticulture. Bring examples of your past work or even photos of your favourite projects to share during the interview. We love seeing passion in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with the team! If you have the chance, reach out to current staff or volunteers on social media. Ask them about their experiences and what they love about working there. This insider info can give you a leg up in your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at English Heritage. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Gardener in Saffron Walden
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening: When writing your application, let us see your love for gardening shine through! Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm and knowledge about horticulture.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to match the Gardener role. Highlight relevant skills, like operating garden machinery or working in a team, and don’t forget to mention your qualifications!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at English Heritage!
How to prepare for a job interview at Landscaping Matters
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge! Familiarise yourself with the types of plants and gardening techniques relevant to the role. Being able to discuss specific plants or gardening methods during the interview will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous gardening roles and experiences. Highlight any work with garden machinery, composting systems, or team projects. Specific examples will help demonstrate your skills and how you can contribute to the team at Audley End.
✨Teamwork is Key
Since you'll be working with a team of 13 staff and 65 volunteers, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked in teams before, especially in high-quality horticultural settings, to show you're a great fit for their culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the garden's future projects or how they maintain their high standards. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.