Youth Programme Assistant

We’re seeking a new Youth Programme Assistant to support the delivery of Kew’s exciting learning initiatives for young people aged 14-17. The post holder will assist with all aspects of event set-up and delivery, predominantly for our flagship Youth Explainer programme and our Youth Forum. The Kew Youth Forum aims to connect young people from local and disadvantaged communities with plants, science and the natural world, focussing on long-term meaningful engagement that builds connection to nature, increases wellbeing, and offers the fantastic opportunity to interact with world-class professionals and experts in the environmental field.

The post holder will be contracted to work one Saturday per week during school term time. As a result, it is expected that the majority of Annual Leave will be taken within school holiday periods. An Enhanced DBS Check is required for this role. The post holder will assist in pre-event preparation, hands-on workshop support for practical activities and administrative work as required by the Programme Coordinator. The role will also involve occasional leading of pre-planned activities with young people and supervising small groups within the Gardens.

We’re looking for an individual with demonstrable previous experience of supporting young people, in a formal or informal learning environment. Excellent communication and organisational skills are essential. You must be a strong team player, but also able to work proactively and independently, taking responsibility for specific tasks. Experience and knowledge of health and safety and safeguarding practices are essential for this role. Whilst a background in horticulture or science is not essential, a passion for conservation and the protection of plants and fungi, and a commitment to social justice practices, is fundamental to the success of this post.

Interviews are due to take place on 8 October 2026. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. The salary for this position is £29,692 per annum (pro rata) [Band B]. Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone. Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.

No agencies please.