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- Tasks: Learn to manage and cultivate a variety of plants hands-on at a historic nursery.
- Company: Great Dixter, a renowned nursery with a rich history in horticulture.
- Benefits: Paid position, subsidised accommodation, and funding for RHS Level 2 qualification.
- Why this job: Join a legacy of horticulture and gain practical skills in a unique environment.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18, UK citizen, and passionate about horticulture.
- Other info: Applications close on 1st April 2024; interviews on 23rd April 2024.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
The nursery was started by Christopher Lloyd in 1954, specialising in good garden-worthy plants. Operating in a traditional way, the nursery uses skills and techniques that are no longer seen in larger or more commercial operations. The aim of the scholarship is to ensure that the historic but effective methods practiced at Great Dixter are passed on to the next generation of nursery workers.
Previous scholars have gone on to work at York Gate, Leeds, Kew Gardens, London, the National Trust Plant Conservation Centre, Devon and open nurseries of their own. The scholar will learn to manage, propagate and cultivate annuals, perennials, ferns, shrubs and trees from the garden at Great Dixter, take part in regular plant idents and attend on-site lectures. The Great Dixter nursery is unusual in growing in a loam-based peat-free potting medium, made on site. 85% of plants at the nursery are produced on site.
The scholarship is primarily a practical training position: while scholars will have the opportunity to attend study days and other courses on site and beyond, applicants should be aware that learning will mostly be through hands-on learning. The placement begins in September 2024 at the same time as the garden scholars. The nursery scholar is a paid position at the national minimum wage, with the option for living in subsidised accommodation on site. Great Dixter will also provide time required and funding to gain an RHS Level 2 in horticulture if the candidate hasn’t got the qualification.
Eligibility- Applicants must be a UK citizen or have the right to work in the UK and be over 18.
- The successful applicant will be interested and motivated to work in the sector, have the skills that placement would develop and have a desire for self-development.
- Relevant qualifications are desirable, as is previous horticultural training and/or work experience.
Applications will be accepted until the 1st April 2024. The selection committee will consider all applications equally. Interviews will be held at Great Dixter on the 23rd April 2024.
Great Dixter: Nursery Scholarship employer: Thedirt
Contact Detail:
Thedirt Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Great Dixter: Nursery Scholarship
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery inside out! Visit Great Dixter if you can, chat with current staff, and soak up the atmosphere. This will not only show your genuine interest but also give you some great talking points during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Familiarise yourself with the types of plants grown at Great Dixter, especially those that are unique to their methods. Being able to discuss specific plants or techniques will impress the selection committee.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with past scholars or horticultural professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. They can offer insights and maybe even tips on how to stand out in your application and interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Great Dixter: Nursery Scholarship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: When writing your application, let your love for plants and gardening shine through! Share any experiences you've had in horticulture, whether it's a garden project or a previous job. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about this opportunity.
Be Specific About Your Skills: Make sure to highlight any relevant skills or qualifications you have. If you've worked with specific plants or techniques, mention them! We’re looking for candidates who can bring something unique to the table, so don’t hold back.
Keep It Personal and Authentic: Your application should reflect who you are. Use a friendly tone and be yourself! We appreciate authenticity, so share your story and what motivates you to apply for the scholarship at Great Dixter.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Great Dixter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thedirt
✨Know Your Plants
Make sure you brush up on your plant knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the types of plants grown at Great Dixter, especially annuals, perennials, ferns, shrubs, and trees. Being able to discuss specific plants and their care will show your genuine interest in horticulture.
✨Show Your Passion for Hands-On Learning
Since this scholarship is all about practical training, be ready to share examples of your hands-on experiences in gardening or horticulture. Talk about any previous work or volunteer roles where you’ve cultivated plants or worked in a nursery setting. This will demonstrate that you’re not just interested in theory but are eager to get your hands dirty!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the traditional techniques used at Great Dixter or how they manage their unique peat-free potting medium. This shows that you’re engaged and genuinely interested in the scholarship and the nursery’s practices.
✨Highlight Your Desire for Self-Development
The scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for growth, so make sure to express your eagerness to learn and develop your skills. Mention any relevant qualifications or courses you’re interested in, like the RHS Level 2 in horticulture, and how you plan to use this scholarship to further your career in horticulture.