We are looking to hire a new apprentice to join us at our vineyard. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a boutique -award winning-sustainable winery with vine to bottle production. Exposure to variety of work with responsibility and great benefits.
As this is an apprenticeship, you will attend Plumpton College for your learning through block release, where you will study for a week at a time (5 times throughout the year). The apprenticeship course starts in March 2026, however you would ideally work with us before the course starts.
Hours: 37.5 hours. Shift patterns may differ, including 08:30am - 12:00pm and 12:30pm - 16:15pm or 08:00am - 11:45am and 12:15pm to 16:15pm. Additional hours will be required over harvest September to October.
Salary: £18,525 - £24,180 per annum.
Application deadline: 8th December 2025
About the Employer
Covering 50 acres of land in the heart of Kent, Redhill Farm Estate is a vineyard that is cultivating seven different types of grape vines (French, German and Swiss origin grown), using varying soil for each of them. Employing modern techniques to benefit biodiversity and promote the natural ecosystem of the varieties, the focus is on the quality of the plant as much as the quality of the wine made from it. Redhill Farm Estate started life as a vineyard with a single vine, and there are now over 27,000. Using sustainable vineyard management practices, our wines express the quality nature of the grapes that are aromatic and full of character and are a true expression of the local terroir. We are based in an idyllic location embedded in a local community with various small businesses surrounding us.
What will the apprentice be doing?
Your day-to-day tasks will vary, but could include day to day vineyard and estate management and helping out with winery activities such as:
- Pruning
- Harvesting
- Checking vine health
- General maintenance
- Assisting with the retail aspect of the vineyard
What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?
Viticulture or wine growing is the cultivation and harvesting of grapes.
Duties of the viticulturist include monitoring and controlling pests and diseases, fertilising, irrigation, canopy management, monitoring fruit development and characteristics, harvest decisions, and vine pruning during the winter months.
Viticulturists are often intimately involved with winemakers, because vineyard management and the resulting grape characteristics provide the basis from which winemaking can begin.
The role requires self-motivation and the ability to work both independently and as a team player to complete tasks safely and efficiently. A lot of time is spent outdoors in all weathers, so resilience and drive are imperative to be successful.
The course will also incorporate a range of competency certificates, such as first aid and pesticide application.
What apprentices will learn
- Pest & disease management
- Yield forecasting & management
- Pruning & trellising
- Canopy management
- Vineyard floor management
- Vineyard establishment
- Harvest planning and management
- Vineyard nutrition
- Health & safety and standard operating procedures
- Vineyard machinery & equipment
- Qualifications Awarded
- Apprenticeship Certificate
- Level 3 award in emergency first aid at work
- Level 2 in Maths and English (if applicable)
- PA1 Safe use of pesticides (pre requisite of PA3)
- PA3 Air assisted sprayer
Delivery model
- 10 weekly blocks of teaching split between the main campus and the college\'s Rock Lodge Vineyard.
What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?
The career progression for the qualified apprentice to be involved in all aspects of this wine business, from growing grapes, to making wine, to presenting our wonderful product to customers.
Desired skills and personal qualities
- Communication skills
- Organisation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Number skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Non judgemental
- Physical fitness
Benefits
- Healthcare programme at month 3
- Birthday afternoon off
- Visits to industry show
- Other unique benefits, more information on application.
Things to consider
- Having access to your own transport is highly recommended due to rural location of vineyard.
- Much of the work is outside in all weathers. The work itself will be quite physical. During peak season, early starts will be required. Being prepared for this is important
- You MUST not be in any other form of full-time or part time formal education (such as school, college or university) to be eligible to apply for an apprenticeship. Shorter course may not apply.
- You MUST have lived in the UK for a minimum of 3 years prior to the start of learning and be eligible to work in the UK.
- You MUST be located in an area local to the apprenticeship or be prepared to relocate in time to start employment and study.
- This apprenticeship is approximately 24 months.
Job Type: Apprenticeship
Pay: £18,525.00-£24,180.00 per year
Application question(s):
- What attracted you to this role?
- Do you hold a full UK driving license? If yes, do you have a car?
Work Location: In person
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vineyard Apprentice
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Vineyard Farms Ltd often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Vineyard Farms Ltd does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Vineyard Farms Ltd
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Vineyard Farms Ltd will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Vineyard Farms Ltd.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Vineyard Farms Ltd.
