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- Tasks: Support the Head Gardener in managing diverse horticultural projects and engaging with visitors.
- Company: Join the Knepp Castle Gardens team, a leader in ecological gardening.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential accommodation, and a chance to work in a stunning natural environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique rewilding project and make a real impact on biodiversity.
- Qualifications: Horticultural qualifications or proven experience, plus a passion for plants.
- Other info: Flexible, hands-on role with opportunities for personal growth and learning.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
An exceptional opportunity to support Knepp’s Head Gardener Charlie Harpur as Deputy of one of the UK’s foremost horticultural and ecological endeavours. This role carries significant responsibility to support the Head Gardener who will be leaning heavily on you to support gardens maintenance, management and ongoing development.
About Us: The 3500-acre Knepp estate is home to the oldest lowland rewilding project in the UK. Knepp’s small gardens team manages a diverse range of horticultural projects within the estate - from experimental and productive gardens, to formal gardens and public spaces. This includes the 1.3-acre Rewilded Walled Garden – a design masterminded by Tom Stuart-Smith and James Hitchmough – providing habitat for over 1000 different types of plant. This project is a unique experiment in maximising garden biodiversity and will be going into its fifth season in 2026. The gardens team hosts garden tours and workshops weekly throughout the season to both engage and inspire visitors, but also help fund our garden experiment.
Job Description: We are seeking someone who can be flexible, nature-driven, and hands-on, as well as supporting the Head Gardener in the management of the team and the ongoing development of the gardens. Tasks within the gardens team are very wide-ranging, and may include orchard and meadow-work, veg-growing, nursery-work, topiary, organising houseplants and cut flowers, visitor engagement and education, habitat creation, experimental and general horticulture, in all weathers!
Essential Skills and Experience
- Excellent organisation and communication skills: familiarity with spreadsheets, record-keeping and work planning
- A positive attitude to manual working outdoors in all weathers
- Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team
- Quick learner who is meticulous at carrying out tasks to a high level
- Horticultural qualifications: RHS Level 2 or very similar in Horticulture as a minimum, or proven practical experience
- A strong horticultural knowledge and passion for plants
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Organic growing/kitchen gardening experience
- Keen interest in ecology
- Experience and comfort in public speaking
- Comfortable using a range of tools and machinery
- Can adapt to different situations and bring a positive attitude to problem solving
- Comfortable supervising and inspiring visiting garden students
- RHS Level 3; Kew, Wisley, Edinburgh diplomas, or similar
- Driving license and own vehicle
Salary and Conditions for the Deputy Head Gardener role
£36k per annum 40-hour week, Monday-Friday, with some requirement to work weekends, where time off in lieu is provided. The Knepp Estate has a number of residential properties that are rented out and accommodation could be provided (if it becomes available) subject to separate discussion.
We value diversity in our team as much as we do in our landscape. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles at Knepp.
To apply
Please apply by email sending a copy of your CV and a cover letter outlining why you are the right person for this job to our recruitment consultant, Michael Walker by email at nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com. Please note that we expect a very large number of applications for both roles and will therefore need to be selective in the applications we will engage with. All applications must have the full-time right to work in the UK at the time of application.
Deadline: 23/02/26
Knepp Castle Gardens - Deputy Head Gardener in Shipley employer: National Gardens Specialist
Contact Detail:
National Gardens Specialist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Knepp Castle Gardens - Deputy Head Gardener in Shipley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Knepp Castle Gardens team! Reach out on social media or attend any public events they host. Building a connection can give you an edge and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Knepp's unique projects, like the Rewilded Walled Garden. Being able to discuss these initiatives will demonstrate your passion and knowledge about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your hands-on experience! Bring examples of your past gardening projects or any relevant work you've done. This will help us see how you can contribute to the team right away.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at Knepp.
We think you need these skills to ace Knepp Castle Gardens - Deputy Head Gardener in Shipley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: When writing your application, let your love for plants and gardening shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your horticultural knowledge and any projects you've been involved in. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this position. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for someone who can support our Head Gardener, so show us how you fit into that picture!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to horticulture. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s make this happen together!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gardens Specialist
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific plants, gardening techniques, and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show your passion for the role and your understanding of Knepp's unique gardening approach.
✨Show Your Flexibility
The role requires a hands-on approach and adaptability. Think of examples from your past experiences where you had to adjust to changing circumstances or take on diverse tasks. Highlighting your flexibility will demonstrate that you're ready for the varied responsibilities at Knepp.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
Since this position involves working closely with the Head Gardener and the team, be ready to talk about your teamwork skills. Share stories that showcase your ability to collaborate, inspire others, and manage volunteers or students effectively.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready for the interviewers. Ask about the ongoing projects at Knepp, the team's dynamics, or how they measure success in their gardening initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
