Job Title: Level 3 and 4 Horticultural Students
Student Reports To: RHS School of Horticulture (SoH), Garden and Curatorial
Location: RHS Garden Wisley
Start Date: September 2026. Two years (fixed term), you will
study for the Level 3 in year one and Level 4 in year two
Salary: £23,810 per annum. The RHS ensure we pay all staff at or above the National Minimum Wage, which is reviewed annually by government
Hours of work: Full time (37.5 hours a week on a rota). The working pattern is 5 days in 7 so your full-time hours will include some weekend working.
About the Level 3 and 4 Diploma in Horticultural Practice:
Would you like to progress your career in horticulture? Do you have an existing Level 2 horticultural qualification and practical experience in horticulture? Do you want to learn more and develop team leader and supervisory skills?
The two-year Diploma course is an academic study and work-based training programme based at RHS Garden Wisley. It is suitable for applicants with an existing horticultural theory qualification at Level 2 (or equivalent) and 6 months full time practical experience at application. The course will enable you to learn about the science, art and practice of horticulture in the setting of RHS Garden Wisley with its diverse collections, plant trials and scientific research taking place on site.
You will work within our departments and teams to enhance and deepen the understanding of horticulture that you gained at Level 2, and develop Level 3 and 4 knowledge, skills and experiences to prepare you for professional life in the industry.
As a Student at RHS Garden Wisley, you will:
• Carry out practical work in all weathers and across the seasons. Our garden teams work outdoors all year round and wet weather clothing will be supplied as part of your uniform
• Spend time with the Curatorial garden teams, working with a diverse range of people and garden types. At RHS Garden Wisley you spend time, on rotation with the teams, so that you can experience the various garden areas across the seasons.
For more details on the garden areas you would work in visit https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/garden-highlights
• Learn how to use appropriate techniques, tools and machinery, to cultivate, establish and care for our plant collections all year round and become a competent horticulturist.
• Work safely and garden sustainably in order to make a positive difference to our green spaces and minimise the risk posed by pests and diseases.
• Undertake any other accountabilities as may reasonably be required in the post
Benefits of Working for the RHS:
To work for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is to join a thriving charity, whose mission is to be there for everyone on their lifelong adventure with gardening. Everything we do is built on the transformational power of gardening – and the benefits it brings to people, places and our planet.
And we couldn’t do this without our people. We’re proud of the knowledge, enthusiasm and ideas that each one of our team members brings. From working across our social media channels, to volunteering in the RHS Gardens, from serving customers in our garden centres to running national marketing campaigns, we believe that every member of the RHS team should have the opportunity to make a difference.
Our careers portal provides a comprehensive overview of what we offer, the teams that work at the RHS and our great benefits.
You can also learn about the range of careers in horticulture by visiting
https://www.rhs.org.uk/education-learning/careers-horticulture
https://www.horticulture.org.uk/grow-careers/ or
https://www.lantra.co.uk/careers
Safeguarding and Inclusion
The RHS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all personnel to share in this commitment. We are an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Accommodation
Accommodation may be available at RHS Garden Wisley (for a deduction in your gross salary).
Further Information:
If you have already completed a Level 3 or 4 Horticultural qualification (or equivalent/higher) you will not be eligible for this programme. The RHS School of Horticulture reserve the right to select candidates based on appropriate skills and qualifications and their potential to develop a career in horticulture.
Progression onto the Level 4 Diploma programme (year two) depends on the Level 3 Diploma Programme (year one) having been successfully completed.
To apply for any work-based training position with the RHS School of Horticulture you must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the placement, the RHS are unable to sponsor visa applications for these positions.
We may review applications as soon as we receive them so if you see a vacancy that you are interested in, please apply straight away as the vacancy will be closed as soon as we receive sufficient applications.
Applications close 1st February 2026
Interviews to be held 23rd February to 6th March
For further information, or if you require any additional support with making your application please contact schoolofhorticulture@rhs.org.uk including details of the position you are applying for.