Gardening Apprentice – Level 2 (Salary £24,785 per annum). Fixed‑term, full‑time role (37.5 hrs per week) with National Trust until 04/05/28. Location: Tunbridge Wells, Lamberhurst (Scotney Castle). Ref: IRC177270.
Summary
Come and join us on 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 one of our Horticulture Apprentices, 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, helping to undertake the regular tasks and 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, and our gardeners are responsible for the conservation and development of plant collections and the gardens to increasing numbers of members and visitors. Our gardens are much loved and visited from far and wide by many and you’ll be part of the team of professionals caring for all aspects of the heritage gardens in the portfolio. You will develop skills in practical gardening techniques, health and safety awareness, plant and site maintenance, teamwork and problem‑solving.
Situated in Lamberhurst in Kent, Scotney Castle comprises a moated medieval castle overlooked by a Victorian mansion, framed in one of the most significant designed picturesque landscapes in the country.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to learn the full range of horticultural skills in our nursery, walled garden and main garden. There has never been a more exciting time to join the Scotney team as we implement the Reconnecting Scotney project to develop the walled garden, historic orchard and restore the vine house.
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 paid. There will also be opportunities to travel to other National Trust locations with some overnight stays to expand your learning and experience. You’ll also be able to join other training events and learn from industry colleagues internally and externally. You’ll attend regular review meetings with your training provider and be accountable for your own progression.
Who we’re looking for
Eligibility criteria:
- A minimum of 2 GCSEs including English and maths at grade E/2, 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
- Have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the contract and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the past three consecutive years
- Not currently on any other training or education programme (for example, another apprenticeship or a degree)
- Able to travel to the work location
Desired knowledge, skills and attributes:
- Ready to start your apprenticeship – no experience required, just bring your 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 (we’ll teach you everything you need to know)
- 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
The package
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
National Trust place
Scotney Castle (AO), Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN
Documents
Apprentice – Level 2.pdf
Requirements
Compliance. Eligibility to work in the UK
Additional information
Closing Date: 23 June 2026
Interview Date: July 2026
This role will start in 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. If you have any questions around your suitability for this vacancy, please contact the people service centre.
Please note we reserve the right to close this advert early and therefore we encourage you to apply for this position early.
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