At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a historic garden, managing a small team and implementing creative designs.
- Company: Batsford Park, a stunning estate with rich heritage and beautiful landscapes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential accommodation, and the chance to shape a garden's future.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a picturesque setting with a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a historic garden while exploring ecological approaches.
- Qualifications: RHS level 3 horticultural qualification or equivalent, strong plant knowledge, and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40000 £ per year.
Following a recent generational change, the owners of Batsford Park are looking for an experienced and hands-on Head Gardener. They should have excellent plant knowledge, be personable and communicate clearly, with the ability to manage and support our team, whilst taking the reins of an exciting, long-term commitment to evolve the garden.
Set within a beautiful landscape overlooking the nearby arboretum, the garden has a strong Arts and Crafts heritage, which the owners are keen to rediscover and reinterpret in a way that feels relevant and contemporary. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and knowledgeable horticulturist with a flair for design to have genuine influence over the garden’s future. The owners are also keen to explore more ecological and nature-based approaches to garden management.
The historic garden is set within exquisite historic parkland with a large lake. The garden has various features including rock work, a formal area including roses which could be an immediate project, and a walled productive garden including a large Hartley Botanics glasshouse, divided into three independently controllable zones. A polytunnel and cuttings garden are planned for the near future to support the supply of fresh flowers and plants for the house.
The successful candidate will lead and develop the garden alongside a team comprising one full-time groundsman, one part-time groundsman and one part-time gardener. The team is supported by specialist contractors as required, providing additional assistance when needed.
This role would suit an experienced Head Gardener, or presents an opportunity for someone with strong plant knowledge, horticultural judgement and the enthusiasm to take ownership and shape our garden over the long term. Candidates should ideally have a RHS level 3 horticultural qualification (or equivalent), have a passion for plants and their use, as well as experience of productive growing, propagation, planning and scheduling. You will also require a full UK driving license. Previous experience of working at a private historic estate would be desirable.
Salary negotiable / accommodation available. Salary Circa £35k - £40k. Salary will reflect experience and whether accommodation (available) is required.
To apply - please send your CV and letter of application to nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com. Closing date Sunday 8th November.
Head Gardener, Batsford Park in Cheltenham employer: National Gardens Specialist
Batsford Park offers a unique opportunity for passionate horticulturists to thrive in a stunning historic setting, where creativity and ecological practices are encouraged. With a supportive team environment and the chance to lead the evolution of a beautiful garden, employees can expect personal growth and the satisfaction of making a lasting impact. The picturesque landscape and commitment to contemporary garden management make Batsford Park an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful work in horticulture.
Contact Details:
National Gardens Specialist Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener, Batsford Park in Cheltenham
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like National Gardens Specialist.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like National Gardens Specialist.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at National Gardens Specialist; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener, Batsford Park in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at National Gardens Specialist.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Head Gardener, Batsford Park.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what National Gardens Specialist is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at National Gardens Specialist a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gardens Specialist
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at National Gardens Specialist might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
