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- Tasks: Take charge of a beautiful garden and collaborate with a passionate team.
- Company: Historic Swynnerton Estates, committed to conservation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential accommodation, and a chance to grow your gardening skills.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a historic estate while nurturing nature.
- Qualifications: Experience in gardening and a proactive, creative mindset.
- Other info: Join a long-standing team and contribute to the future of the estate.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are looking for a hands-on, creative and proactive sole gardener to take charge of the garden and be a collaborative member of our wider team. Swynnerton Hall is a 'Grade I' listed building and sits within a 5,500 acre estate in Staffordshire. The history of the wider estate dates back to the 11th century, parts of which still remain with the family today. In the mid-16th century the Fitzherbert’s inherited the Swynnerton Estate and continue to own and run The Estate today. In recent years the Estate has focused on diversifying away from the historical agricultural reliance, and includes a commitment to conservation and sustainability.
The gardens are relatively modest and include both formal and informal spaces. There is a simple grass terrace which, beyond the Ha-Ha, connects with the parkland to the South, designed by Lancelot Brown. There is a flower garden, productive garden, a significant modern glass house (heated by biofuel), and a formal garden with clipped topiary and hedges. The wider pleasure grounds contain grass glades, an Ice Pond, bulb planting and a range of rare and unusual trees. There is an opportunity to manage the grassland as wildflower meadow.
The Estate has recently made a generational change with the new family now in place with responsibility for The Estate. They are looking to make their own contribution by updating the garden and estate in ways that carefully respects the past. The garden provides many opportunities to do so.
We are looking for an experienced Sole Gardener to work closely with the family as well as the wider Swynnerton Estates Team. We will take gentle but progressive steps in moving the garden forward. This could provide an opportunity for the Sole Gardener to further develop their experience and knowledge to support the implementation of new ideas on the ground. Whilst we believe in taking a practical and realistic approach; we value our soil, nature and the environment and look forward to the Sole Gardener helping us to move the garden in that direction.
We have a wonderful collaborative team at Swynnerton with staff staying for a long time (only three gardeners in 70 years) and are hoping that the appointee will look to make a lasting commitment. The successful appointment should be enthusiastic, proactive, discrete, someone who will take responsibility for their work, and who will share our vision and passion for the future of the garden and estate.
Salary based on experience reflecting the PGG Salary Guidelines. Accommodation could be available to rent on the estate as and when a property becomes available.
To apply – please send your CV and a covering letter to our recruitment consultant, Michael Walker by email nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com
Sole Gardener in Stafford employer: National Gardens Specialist
Contact Detail:
National Gardens Specialist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sole Gardener in Stafford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate and its history! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Swynnerton Estates and its gardens. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Bring along some ideas or sketches of how you envision the garden evolving. This proactive approach can really impress the family and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about sustainability! Since the estate values conservation, be prepared to discuss your experience with eco-friendly gardening practices and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Sole Gardener in Stafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for gardening and the environment shine through. We want to see your love for plants and nature, so share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your passion!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Sole Gardener role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in managing gardens or working with diverse plant species. We’re looking for someone who can take charge, so showcase your leadership skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for Swynnerton Estates. Be creative and proactive in your approach, and don’t forget to mention how you align with our vision for conservation and sustainability.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you about your ideas for the garden!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gardens Specialist
✨Know Your Plants
Make sure you brush up on your plant knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, their care, and how they fit into the garden's design. This shows your passion and expertise, which is exactly what they’re looking for!
✨Show Your Creativity
Prepare to share some of your creative ideas for the garden. Think about how you can incorporate sustainable practices or modern techniques while respecting the estate's history. Bring along a portfolio if you have one, showcasing your previous work and innovative projects.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with the family and the wider team, be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve common goals in gardening or landscaping.
✨Express Your Commitment
They’re looking for someone who will make a lasting commitment to the estate. Be prepared to discuss why you want to stay long-term and how you envision contributing to the garden’s future. Show them that you’re not just looking for a job, but a place to grow your career.
