Job reference WREQ000758 Date posted 04/07/2025 Application closing date 20/07/2025 Location: Winchester College Salary: £31,260.00 (gross) per annum Package: Generous Benefits Package Contractual hours: Not specified Basis: Not specified Job category/type: Not specified
Head Gardener
Job description
PART I: ABOUT THE ROLE
Winchester College is seeking a Head Gardener with vision, flair, and sensitivity.
Background
Founded by Royal Charter in 1382, Winchester College's gardens range from formal Quads to a listed War Cloister, Boarding House gardens, and wilder areas. They form the background for college life and contribute significantly to the College Spirit of Place. The gardens provide tranquility to the learned environment while also offering enjoyment and wellbeing. They are also used for school and public events.
The school buildings, opened in 1394, have been in continual use for over 600 years. The original statutes made provisions for a Warden and a Governing Body of ten Fellows. Originally for 70 scholars with 2 Masters to instruct them, and for the Chapel services, 3 Chaplains, and 16 choirboys (Quiristers). All of these are still in place within the Winchester College community.
This is a rare opportunity to work within historic and beautiful surroundings and to help shape their future.
Role
The Head Gardener will lead with vision and sensitivity. Someone who will tend and care for our beautiful gardens and green spaces while respecting and understanding their history and surroundings. Helping to shape and guide these gardens into the future.
The Grounds and Gardens Department
Reporting to the Estate Bursar, the Grounds and Gardens Department is responsible for all the green spaces within the College. The department consists of:
* Head of Grounds and Gardens
* Head Gardener (This role)
* Deputy Grounds person
* 2 Senior Gardeners
* 3 Grounds Staff
* 2 Grounds/Gardens Assistants
This position reports to and will work closely with the Head of Grounds, who is responsible for the day-to-day management as well as the longer-term planning of the department.
They will be responsible for day-to-day care and future planning of the gardens. The role will require the management and supervision of a small team of gardeners to ensure the highest standards are maintained throughout the year.
PART II: RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE HEAD GARDENER
Key responsibilities are:
* Lead, motivate, and manage a team of gardeners to ensure the gardens are presented to the highest standards.
* Effective communication and cooperation with other departments, third-party contractors, and the wider college community.
* Management of planting, ordering, propagation, and cultivation of plants.
* Lead guided tours.
* Plan for an extensive events list throughout the year, ensuring the gardens are presented at their best, such as National Garden Scheme and weddings.
* Work with the Head of Grounds to develop, design, and implement a long-term sustainable plan, keeping within the philosophy and rich history of the various garden settings.
* The production of detailed planting designs.
* Construction and delivery of garden maintenance and development programmes.
* Maintenance of machinery and tools.
PART III: PERSON SPECIFICATION AND KEY QUALITIES
Person Requirements
* Established and proven horticultural skills, including previous experience as a Head Gardener in a similar environment. Strong knowledge of garden design and long-term planning, ideally with RHS Level 3 or above.
* Exceptional presentation skills with a keen eye for detail.
* Positive interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with various departments and third-party contractors.
* Good day-to-day organisational abilities, showing effective management on an operational level as well as sound longer-term planning capabilities.
* Experience managing teams, nurturing motivation and reliability within the gardening team, and demonstrating exceptional self-motivation and a positive work ethic. Ability to work under pressure to meet seasonal garden requirements.
* Enjoy working in a school environment and understanding that the role is part of the wider college community.
* Ideally possess PA1 and PA6 certifications to assist with college spraying programmes.
* Up-to-date knowledge of Health and Safety and COSHH requirements, with willingness to undergo appropriate training.
* Good physical fitness and willingness to work at heights.
* Full driving license.
PART IV: BENEFITS, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS, AND APPLICATION
Start date
As soon as possible.
Hours of Work
This is a full-time, 40-hour per week position, with expected flexibility in working arrangements and duties to reflect the dynamic roles within the college environment. This includes weekend work on a rota system and additional evening hours for sports fixtures, college events, and other workloads as deemed necessary by the Head of Grounds.
Salary
£31,260.00 (gross) per annum, paid monthly in 12 equal payments, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Induction and Continuous Training and Development
The school is committed to staff induction, training, and development, supporting staff to grow and reach their full potential through various training programmes, seminars, and learning lunches. An annual appraisal cycle offers opportunities for reflection and professional growth. The school also offers apprenticeships supporting staff development and progression.
Pension and Life Cover
Employees will be auto-enrolled into the College pension scheme according to legislative thresholds. Non-eligible employees may choose to join the scheme. The College offers a Group Personal Pension Plan (GPP) with contributions detailed in the original description. Life cover is provided based on the pension tier.
Annual Leave
28 days of holiday annually, including public bank holidays, with leave to be scheduled outside school term times unless otherwise arranged. Additional time off during Christmas may be granted at the discretion of the Bursar.
Wider Benefits
* Free staff lunches during term time
* Access to sports facilities and discounted rates
* Venue booking discounts for college events
* Cycle to work scheme
* Access to cultural, musical, theatrical, and sporting events
* Employee referral scheme
* Library membership with online journals
* Reduced green fee rates for golf
Probation and Notice Periods
Six-month probation, with regular reviews. One-month notice during probation, two months thereafter.
Disclosure Check
Mandatory enhanced DBS check to promote safeguarding. Compliance with safeguarding policies is required.
References and Pre-employment Checks
Successful appointment depends on medical checks and references, including verification of experience and qualifications. References from current or most recent employers are required.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications must be completed on the school website. CVs via email are not accepted. Applications are reviewed as received, and the college reserves the right to appoint before the deadline.
Closing date: Midnight Sunday 20th July 2025.
For informal inquiries, contact Dave Rustell, Head Groundskeeper, at der@wincoll.ac.uk.
For questions about the vacancy or recruitment process, email recruitment@wincoll.ac.uk.
Diversity and Inclusion
Winchester College values diversity and promotes an inclusive, fair environment. Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.
Data Protection
The college processes personal data in accordance with GDPR and the Data Act 2018. For concerns about data processing, contact dataprotection@wincoll.ac.uk.
PART V: ABOUT WINCHESTER COLLEGE
Founded in 1382, Winchester College is a leading educational institution known for academic excellence, pastoral care, and extracurricular activities, including music, sports, and community engagement. It is committed to offering opportunities regardless of financial circumstances and fostering a diverse community.
Sustainability: Learn more about our sustainability initiatives here.
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