The partnership between Garden Organic and Seeds of Change allows Garden Organic to offer three people a fantastic opportunity to gain practical organic gardening experience and a nationally recognised work-based vocational qualification – the Diploma in Work-Based Training (Horticulture Production) available at Warwickshire College - at the same time.

 

The three successful applicants will work alongside the full-time gardens team at Garden Organic’s renowned Ryton Organic Gardens for 12 months. During the year the apprentices will cover all aspects of horticulture from planning through to harvest, tending productive and ornamental plantings. They will also have an opportunity to experience the work of the Heritage Seed Library, join our research team and help in the production of food and plants for the Webbs Garden Centre retail and catering business on site.

 

Garden Organic and Webbs will hold a number of events during the year and also attend several shows to promote organic growing and meet the public. Apprentices will join us at these events to represent the Garden Organic organisation.

 

The Diploma in Work-Based Training replaces the existing National Vocational Qualifications as the recognised vocational practical qualification system in England.
Garden Organic is working with Warwickshire College to provide the training in organic horticulture production at Ryton for the three apprentices. Skills will be assessed at work by our trained staff, leading to the award of a Diploma for successful students.

 

Experience of working in the gardens at Ryton has always been seen externally as a good reference to include in job applications, as it provides a rounded experience of practical skills.

 

Please see the "Selection Criteria and T&Cs" section at the end of the form for more information on the application process and the criteria on which the apprentices will be selected.

 

 

Essential candidate requirements:

• At least 5 GCSEs, including English, Maths or Science at grade C
• Experience of working effectively with others
• Demonstrate a commitment to organic principles
• Be able to manage their time effectively and to prioritise work assignments
• Show a commitment to training and attaining the required level of knowledge within 12 months
• Demonstrate good computer literacy with competent use of standard IT software
• Be polite and courteous when dealing with others (especially visitors to the gardens at Ryton and members of the public at any shows and events)
• Demonstrate loyalty to Garden Organic and, where appropriate, Seeds of Change
• Be prepared to undertake occasional out of hours work
• Have the ability to identify risks to self and others and take appropriate action
• Show an appreciation and commitment to Health and Safety issues in the workplace
• Be committed to Equal Opportunities in all work places

 

Desirable candidate requirements:

• Have some volunteer experience of organic gardening
• Demonstrate a knowledge of Soil Association standards