Apprenticeship in Botanical Horticulture

The National Botanic Garden of Wales Apprenticeship in Botanical Horticulture

Apprenticeships are a great way to launch a career in horticulture. Earn while you learn and combine academic study with on-the-job training and work experience. This opportunity is a two-year work-based horticulture course with day release for academic study.

Overview

The apprenticeship starts in September with the aim to impart the highest standards of professional horticultural skills. The apprenticeship offers practical training in botanical horticulture. Working alongside other horticulturists at the Garden, you will also gain underpinning knowledge from college study. Our apprentices will be helping the Garden achieve world-class standards while developing their own career.

Course objectives

The apprenticeship is an entry-level position designed for an enthusiastic and committed individual wishing to start a career in horticulture. Apprentices are employed on a salary paid in line with national minimum wage rates. College fees and placements are paid for by the Garden and its partners.

The apprentice will gain confidence and work experience in all areas of horticulture at the Garden including: botanical horticulture, garden maintenance, working in glasshouses, nurseries and display horticulture. Personal development is encouraged with opportunities to gain appropriate National Proficiency Tests Council qualifications and options to take part in placements with other partner gardens.

What’s involved

In-house practical training in all aspects of botanical horticulture, garden management and maintenance.
A day with Coleg Sir Gar studying for the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture.
Qualify in the City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Horticulture (QCF) being delivered under the apprenticeship framework.
Work alongside our skilled horticulturists, horticulture trainees and volunteers.
Participate in plant identification training.
Keep a work diary.
Gain appropriate National Proficiency Tests Council qualifications.
Have the opportunity to take part in work placements with other partner gardens.

Course assessment

In order to complete the apprenticeship, you must:

successfully pass the practical assessments by achieving competence in horticultural tasks supported by your supervisor.
undertake all standard training requirements.
participate in regular reviews.
attend college and pass the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture.

Entry Requirements

Education/Qualifications: Minimum of 2 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including Mathematics and English.

Knowledge/Experience: An interest and enthusiasm for learning, and the determination to develop a career in horticulture along with a genuine interest in the mission and purpose of the Garden.

Competencies/abilities: Evidence of some previous interest, competence, and skill in gardening. The organisational ability and motivation to follow a work and study schedule. The physical capacity to work out of doors, in all seasons and to undertake physical tasks.

The possession of a current driving licence and fluency in written and spoken Welsh are desirable but not essential.

The ability to satisfy the eligibility requirements for the apprenticeship scheme is essential: Apprenticeships – Guidance and Services

Apply

Applications are now open, click here for further details, closing date is 30th April, 2024

Support our Apprenticeships Scheme

Many of our apprentices have gone on to work at local employers in the Carmarthenshire area, and some have even stayed to work at the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Skills in horticulture are incredibly important, with many jobs requiring advanced skills and knowledge.

We need your support to help ensure that we can continue to offer placements at the National Botanic Garden of Wales. These opportunities are important not only to us but to the young people who come here to learn and develop.