At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Garden team to maintain stunning gardens and assist with exciting new projects.
- Company: The Bishop’s Palace is a historic site in Wells, Somerset, dedicated to conservation and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working days, a beautiful work environment, and the chance to grow your skills.
- Why this job: Work in a breathtaking setting while making a positive impact on heritage and visitor experience.
- Qualifications: 1 year of gardening experience and a horticulture qualification are essential.
- Other info: Choose your preferred three working days and enjoy potential for increased hours in the future.
The predicted salary is between 19700 - 24100 £ per year.
The Bishop’s Palace is a 13th century medieval palace and has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. Located in the centre of the small City of Wells, in Somerset. The Palace is surrounded by a breath-taking moat, drawbridge and iconic gatehouse. It is a beautiful and inspirational place to work. As a charitable organisation our purpose is to conserve The Bishop’s Palace.
As an Assistant Gardener you will work within the Garden team, under the direction of the Head Gardener, to maintain the gardens to the highest possible standard. You will also work alongside the volunteers working in the grounds and assist with the development of new projects.
Key tasks will include:
- Maintain all aspects of the garden to an exceptionally high standard for example grass cutting, tree and shrub maintenance, greenhouse work, weeding, infrastructure (paths, steps, seats etc).
- Ensure that the garden is presented as attractively and safely as possible at all times.
- Respond to visitor needs, comments and queries in the grounds whenever necessary.
You will have at least 1 year’s practical experience of gardening with good knowledge of plants and kitchen gardening. You will also hold a Horticulture qualification such as RHS or City & Guilds. Ideally you will have some experience of working with volunteers and vulnerable adults plus have experience of working in a Heritage Garden or Visitor attraction garden. You will also have excellent customer service skills and the ability to work as part of a team and use initiative.
The Assistant Gardener role will be 22.5 hours per week, worked over three consecutive days between Monday to Thursday. Work hours are 8.00am to 4.00pm with a 30-minute unpaid break. The successful applicant can choose which three days they prefer to work. This role has potential to increase hours in the future.
How to Apply: Please send your CV along with a Cover letter by 12noon on Tuesday 1 July 2025. Do note that your application may not be considered without a cover letter. Interviews are scheduled to be held at The Bishop’s Palace on Monday 14 July 2025. The anticipated start date for this role is August 2025.
Assistant Gardener employer: The Bishop's Palace
Contact Detail:
The Bishop's Palace Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with The Bishop's Palace and its gardens. Understanding the history and significance of the site will not only impress during interviews but also help you connect your passion for gardening with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees if possible. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your practical gardening experience by preparing examples of past projects or tasks you've completed. Be ready to discuss how you maintained gardens and worked with volunteers, as this aligns closely with the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your customer service skills. Since you'll be interacting with visitors, think of ways to demonstrate your ability to respond to queries and enhance their experience in the gardens.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key tasks and requirements for the Assistant Gardener position. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the role at The Bishop’s Palace. Mention your gardening experience, knowledge of plants, and any relevant qualifications like RHS or City & Guilds. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working in a heritage garden.
Update Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your practical gardening experience, customer service skills, and any experience working with volunteers. Include specific examples that demonstrate your ability to maintain gardens to a high standard.
Double-Check Your Application: Before submitting, review your CV and cover letter for any errors or omissions. Ensure that you have included all required documents and that your application is submitted before the deadline of 12 noon on Tuesday 1 July 2025.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Bishop's Palace
✨Know Your Plants
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plants and gardening techniques. Be prepared to discuss your practical experience and any specific plants you have worked with, especially those relevant to kitchen gardening.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working with volunteers and as part of a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have in mentoring or guiding others.
✨Customer Service Matters
As you'll be responding to visitor needs, it's crucial to demonstrate your customer service skills. Think of instances where you've handled queries or complaints effectively and be ready to discuss them.
✨Express Your Passion for Heritage Gardens
The Bishop’s Palace is a heritage site, so convey your enthusiasm for working in such an environment. Share any relevant experiences you have in heritage gardens or visitor attractions to show your commitment to conservation.