Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn about trees and arboriculture while working hands-on in beautiful gardens.
- Company: Join the Royal Horticultural Society, a leading charity in gardening.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, gain qualifications, and enjoy a vibrant work culture.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in arboriculture with practical experience and expert guidance.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for nature and learning.
- Other info: Full-time role with college attendance and opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 19800 - 23810 £ per year.
Reports To: The Arborist Team Leader (and Garden Manager as and when required)
Location: RHS Garden Bridgewater, RHS Garden Wisley
Start Date: August 2026. Two years (fixed term)
Salary: £23,810 per annum. The RHS ensures we pay all staff at or above the National Minimum Wage, which is reviewed annually by government.
Hours of work: Full time (37.5 hours a week on a rota). The working pattern is 5 days in 7 so your full-time hours will include some weekend working. For this position you will attend college on day release and occasionally on a residential basis which will involve travel and staying away from home.
About the Apprenticeship
Are you interested in learning about trees, woodlands, arboriculture, arboretums and forest ecology, but new to the industry? The Level 2 Arborist apprenticeship programme at RHS Garden Bridgewater and RHS Garden Wisley will support you to learn and develop your knowledge and skills by working alongside our knowledgeable, skilled and experienced staff in the workplace. Alongside the training in the garden, you will also attend college to study for the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship qualification, developing your understanding of Arboriculture, and embed the practical learning. On successful completion of the apprenticeship you will achieve the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship, a nationally recognised qualification.
During the apprenticeship, you will:
- Carry out practical work, in all weathers and across the seasons
- Complete a Level 2 qualification at college (equivalent to GCSE)
- Spend time with the Arborist team.
- Learn how to use appropriate techniques, tools and machinery, to cultivate, establish and care for our woody plant collections all year round, including chainsaw operations, tree climbing (working from heights), climbing with a chainsaw, tree felling and working with a range of different machinery.
- Work safely and garden sustainably
These experiences and the skills you learn will equip you for professional life in the industry and start your career in arboriculture.
Benefits of Working for the RHS
To work for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is to join a thriving charity, whose mission is to be there for everyone on their lifelong adventure with gardening. Everything we do is built on the transformational power of gardening – and the benefits it brings to people, places and our planet. And we couldn’t do this without our people. We’re proud of the knowledge, enthusiasm and ideas that each one of our team members brings. From working across our social media channels, to volunteering in the RHS Gardens, from serving customers in our garden centres to running national marketing campaigns, we believe that every member of the RHS team should have the opportunity to make a difference.
Our careers portal provides a comprehensive overview of what we offer, the teams that work at the RHS and our great benefits. You can also learn about the range of careers in arboriculture by visiting www.rhs.org.uk/education-learning/careers-horticulture, www.trees.org.uk/Careers/Careers-in-Arboriculture or www.lantra.co.uk/careers.
Safeguarding and Inclusion
The RHS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all personnel to share in this commitment. We are an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Further Information
To apply for any work‑based training position with the RHS School of Horticulture you must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the placement, the RHS are unable to sponsor visa applications for these positions. Due to government funding rules, to be eligible for the apprenticeship:
- Applicants must not already hold a Level 2 qualification in Arboriculture, Forestry or other closely related industries or have more than 12 months of practical experience in the industry.
- UK nationals, citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) or with Pre‑Settled Status through the EU Settlement Scheme and those with the right to abode must have been resident in the UK for at least the previous three years prior to the start of the apprenticeship.
We may review applications as soon as we receive them so if you see a vacancy that you are interested in, please apply straight away as the vacancy will be closed as soon as we receive sufficient applications. For further information, or if you require any additional support with making your application, please email schoolofhorticulture@rhs.org.uk with details of the position you are applying for. Applications close 22nd February 2026. Interviews to be held 16th March to 2nd April.
Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship employer: Royal Horticultural Society
Contact Detail:
Royal Horticultural Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RHS and its values! Before your interview, dive into their mission and what they stand for. This will help you connect your passion for arboriculture with their goals, making you a standout candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions related to arboriculture and your enthusiasm for learning. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your hands-on experience! Even if it’s just a hobby, talk about any gardening or tree care you've done. It shows your commitment and gives you an edge over other candidates who might not have practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on the careers portal for updates and tips on how to shine in your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Arboriculture: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for trees and gardening! Share any experiences or interests that relate to arboriculture, even if they're just hobbies. This will help us understand why you're excited about this apprenticeship.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team at RHS Garden Bridgewater and RHS Garden Wisley!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, you can explore more about what we offer while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Horticultural Society
✨Know Your Trees!
Brush up on your knowledge of trees, woodlands, and arboriculture. Familiarise yourself with common species and their characteristics, as well as the tools and techniques used in the industry. This will show your passion and readiness to learn during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
The RHS values enthusiasm for gardening and nature. Be sure to express your genuine interest in the apprenticeship and how it aligns with your career goals. Share any relevant experiences, even if they are informal, to demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship, the team you'll be working with, and the training you'll receive. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if this is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Safety Awareness
Since the role involves working with tools and machinery, be ready to discuss safety practices. Familiarise yourself with basic safety protocols in arboriculture and be prepared to talk about how you would ensure a safe working environment.
