HEAD GROWER (FULL TIME) FOR BIODYNAMIC MARKET GARDEN

HEAD GROWER (FULL TIME) FOR BIODYNAMIC MARKET GARDEN

HAYMANS FARM, WEST SUSSEX

Haymans Farm is a beautiful 150-acre farm situated in West Sussex on the edge of the South Downs National Park. It is a family farm where for many years the land has been used for sheep grazing and hay making.

Plans to evolve the farm into a biodynamic farm producing a wide range of food are now underway, with a focus on sharing the magic of the place and creating community around food. Guided by regenerative practices, the aim is to preserve and build the health of the soil allowing it to produce vital food and sequester carbon.

We are looking for a Head Grower to take up the challenge of starting the market garden that will produce food for kitchen workshops and a local farmers market. Applicants are invited to share their ideas for developing a 3-acre site using methods consistent with regenerative practices. No dig and intensive beds are envisaged with two or three polytunnels and fruit growing. An understanding or openness to biodynamics is essential.

The grower would ideally have a training qualification and at least two years practical experience in a chemical-free, organic, or biodynamic enterprise and a commitment to regenerative practices. You will need to be hardworking, practical, flexible, and committed to high standards. Ideally, you should have an aptitude for leading and driving excellence within a diverse team as well as an ability to work independently. Above all, you should have a sense of humour, a love of the land, and a passion to work with Nature.

REQUIREMENTS

1. A demonstrated commitment to regenerative and biodynamic management of land and soil.
2. Experience with ground preparation, propagation from seed, cuttings and divisions, harvesting, pest and disease management, storing, and packing.
3. A full driver\’s licence, access to own vehicle, and an ability to drive vehicles such as tractors including trailers and other attachments.
4. An ability to work with volunteers instructing them where necessary.
5. Confidence in making decisions and resourcefulness in solving problems.
6. An interest and preparedness to work as part of the farm team to create an innovative and inclusive project.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Cultivating and establishing a growing garden on site.
2. Yearly planning of crop rotations.
3. Maintaining records of crop activities and observations.
4. Compliance with Demeter Certification requirements.
5. Planning and placing orders for materials and supplies.
6. Establishing a composting system.
7. Setting up and maintenance of an irrigation system.
8. Growing and harvesting produce to the quality standard needed for the kitchen and markets.
9. Liaising with other members of the farm team.

START DATE: September/October 2021

LOCATION: Haymans Farm, Shillinglee Road, Plaistow, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 0PQ

APPLICATION INFORMATION: For further information please contact Flora Stubbs on 07775 997763 or email: flora@haymansfarm.co.uk with your CV together with reasons why you would be the right person to take up the challenge.

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