1. Placement Structure

This is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to learn more about horticulture and conservation and develop a large range of skills. It will suit someone who enjoys being in harmony with Nature and wildlife and who can appreciate this wonderful garden. The Assistant will be working with the Founder.

The role of Garden Assistant is flexible and can be undertaken by arrangement for any period of time for as little or as frequent as you want. It is suggested that you plan for a minimum of 4 hours a week.

You will be involved in learning to maintain the unique collections of plants and landscaping of about half an acre in size.

It’s a friendly atmosphere and lots of interesting things to do and learn.

This post can yield immense satisfaction and self-improvement.

You will also be able to gain skills and obtain experience in a range of conservation and horticulture topics as well as landscape design, habitats, wildlife.

Although a qualification is not offered the range of skills you will learn is commensurate with RHS Level 1 and 2.

2. Activities

There is a very wide range of activities you can learn and get involved in such as:

Weeding;     pruning trees and shrubs;      putting in new plants;    taking cuttings to start new plants;     sowing seeds;   painting garden buildings/arches/ benches/arbours/fencrs/pergolas etc;     lawn  care;     harvesting fruit;   watering plants;       cutting off flower heads when flowers finish;      soil carr & structure; cleaning paths & paving blocks;     little repairs;    maintaining the woodland and wildflower meadow;  maintaining the 12 composting bins;  helping to maintain the pond and wetland;  arranging & maintaining garden furniture,arches,arbours; cleaning statues; pressure washing patios etc.;  maintaining wildlife habitats.

There is also the opportunity to get involved in such projects and activities as: landscaping, developing new planting areas, improving wildlife houses and habitats,  painting & decorating. There may even be the possibility of taking full responsibility/control of a selected area ('room') of the garden.

3. Library

There is a unique, large a very well equipped library to which you will have access. This is housed in thr summerhouse/study room. The wide range of books covers many subjects including:

Horticulture; Aboriculture; Landscaping; Design; Art & Architecture; Wildlife; Conservation; Ecology; Botany; Encyclopaedias; Great gardeners; Great gardens; History of landscape; Country houses & parks; Garden d.i.y. & crafts; Garden design & decor;  Water gardening/ponds;  Wild plants/flowers; Herbs; Rural social history; The English village; Photography;  Astronomy; Geology.

4. Support

We will support and help you. All tools are provided. You will need your own gloves. No experience is required as full tuition is offered.

There are protocols and policy documents on such matters as: Health & Safety; Risk Assessment; Student Welfare etc. You will not be left alone in the garden. The Founder is always on hand for support and advice.

A task will be introduced to you and demonstrated and questions can be asked. And then you will be left to carry on with that task under you own steam. And when it is finished we can talk about it before moving on to the next tasks.
 

5. Duration

Though not obligatory, it is suggested that the post last for one year (renewable) so that you can appreciate the cycle of things through the seasons. And gain experience and skills and see projects through and have the satisfaction of knowing you have made a difference.

6. Benefits

● Learning a range of skill in the areas of gardening, conservation, wildlife, habitats, design and landscaping.

● On completion volunteers can opt to create a video presentation on their work with us which will be posted on our You-Tube Channel.

● Such volunteering supports the SCGT but yields individual benefits such as: enhanced cv, developmental skills in a chosen areas connected to career choice, learning marketing/presentation/ communication/research etc skills. Volunteering will improve your skills and c.v. When recruiting staff employers often favour applicants who have done volunteering work.

● On conclusion: (i) You will produce a final brief report on your achievements/role. (ii) Receive a testimonial from the Trust. (iii) Be able to list the Trust as one of your References for job applications. (iv) Public Credit: Volunteers are listed on the page 'Our Students' as a list/roll call. https://stephencoxgarden.webador.co.uk/our-students. And have an entry about them on our Blog.

Enquire/Apply

If you would like to know more about this great opportunity or would like to apply for the post then just fill in the enquiry form below briefly telling us something about yourself.