Join Our National Trust Apprenticeship
Come and join us in a National Trust apprenticeship where we will support and develop you to play an integral part in our work to tackle climate change, protect historic sites and help people and nature thrive. You don’t need experience for this role, just loads of enthusiasm and a desire to learn.
As a Horticulture Apprentice, you’ll be part of our horticulture teams, helping to look after one of our 224 historic gardens, playing a vital role in delivering our conservation and climate change strategies, undertaking regular horticultural maintenance, conservation, and care of the gardens to safeguard them for the future. On successful completion you will have a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Horticulture, taking your first steps towards a future career in gardening.
What it’s like to work here
Our gardens are heritage sites and homes to the most extensive plant collection in Europe. The gardeners are responsible for the conservation and development of plant collections and the gardens, attracting increasing numbers of members and visitors. You will develop skills in practical gardening techniques, health and safety awareness, plant and site maintenance, teamwork and problem solving.
Nymans, described as one of the horticultural jewels in the National Trust and one of the most significant gardens in the UK, offers a distinctive blend of formality and informality. The garden was the passion of three generations of the Messel family and was created around the expeditions of some of the great plant collectors. It aims to grow and develop alongside the natural world.
What you’ll be doing
Working alongside your mentor on tasks specific to your apprenticeship, you will develop the skills and knowledge relevant to the Apprenticeship Standard Horticultural Operative Level 2.
Your training will be delivered via a combination of mandatory 5‑day college blocks and online learning, with all college expenses and travel covered. There will also be opportunities to travel to other National Trust locations with overnight stays to expand your learning and experience. You will attend training events and learn from industry colleagues both internally and externally, and you’ll attend regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression.
Who we’re looking for
- A minimum of 2 GCSEs, including English and maths at grade E/2 or Functional Skills Level 1 or equivalent.
- If you hold an EHCP, Entry Level 3 in English and maths is acceptable.
- Aged 16 or over and have completed Year 11.
- Right to work in the UK for the full duration and have been ordinarily resident for the past three consecutive years.
- Not currently on any other training or education programme (e.g., another apprenticeship or a degree).
- Able to travel to the work location.
- If you are aged 18 or under at the point of enrolment and have not achieved English and maths at grade C/4, you may be enrolled on functional skills level 2 as part of your apprenticeship.
- If you have a qualification in the same or a related subject or have lots of relevant work experience this will mean you are not eligible for the apprenticeship.
Once you’ve checked you’re eligible, please demonstrate the following Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Ready to start your apprenticeship – no experience needed, just bring enthusiasm.
- Positive, curious and up for learning – motivated, open‑minded and keen to grow.
- Confident to speak and happy to listen – you help people feel heard and included.
- A great team player – flexible, supportive and comfortable adapting when needed.
- Able to follow instructions and stay safe – especially when using tools and equipment.
- Focused on giving great service – you care about helping others and doing a good job.
- Friendly and respectful – especially when working with volunteers and the wider community.
Benefits
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% of basic salary.
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18).
- Season ticket loan.
- EV car lease scheme.
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts.
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days based on length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme subject to minimum criteria.
Location: Nymans Garden, Handcross, Haywards Heath, RH17 6EB
Closing Date: 22 June 2026
Interview Date: July 2026
Programme start: October 2026 and runs for 19 months.
Equal Opportunities Statement
The National Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating a fair and equal society, free from discrimination. You can read more about our commitment to inclusion and diversity here.
Safeguarding Statement
The National Trust is committed to a safe recruitment process to help the organisation attract and appoint the right staff/volunteer for the role and responsibilities as set out in the vacancy advert. We will not accept applicants who are not suitable to work with children, young people or adults at risk.
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