Jobs & Volunteers

SENIOR GARDENER

A challenging and exciting role for a passionate hands on Senior Gardener caring for an historic woodland garden, open to the public.

High Beeches Gardens

The garden is situated in the High Weald of Sussex, a 27 acre mature woodland garden which has been sensitively planted and now maintained to enhance this unique piece of Wealden landscape. The garden is listed Grade 2* by English Heritage and is well known for its collection of rare trees and shrubs.

The garden is open to the public every afternoon from April until October.

A garden for all seasons, in spring the magnolias, camellias and early rhodendrons are at their best, and the garden is carpeted with narcissus bulbocodium and cyclamineus as well as the native Lent Lilies.

In early summer the azaleas and later rhododendrons including the magnificent Rh. Loderi are in flower and the woodland glades are full of bluebells. By June the ancient, native 4 acre wildflower meadow is a beautiful sight alive with many pollinators and other insects.

Autumn brings a spectacular display of autumn colour provided by the many nyssas, liquidambers, fothergillas and acers, one of the best in the country.

The garden is situated on the head waters of the Ouse River which means a number of ghylls and streams flow through the garden and there are a several ponds attracting reptiles and many dragonflies. The garden and surrounding land is managed very much with biodiversity in mind, with both the meadows and the woodland garden providing a haven for native wild life and flora.

This is very much a hands on role working with a small team to conserve this important place for visitors to enjoy now and into the future, whilst retaining the integrity of the place.

 Experience/Qualifications

Ideally RHS 3 or equivalent

3 years working experience

The garden and work can be physically demanding and so a good level of fitness is necessary

Happy to work on own initiative and with one other gardener

Positive can do attitude and strong work ethic

Flexible approach, and willing to provide occasional weekend cover when garden is open to the public

Competent operating and maintaining garden machinery

Understanding and experience of implementing relevant Health and Safety legislation and writing risk assessments

Driving licence and car owner essential as the garden is not accessible by public transport

A good knowledge and passion for trees and shrubs an advantage

Knowledge of pests and diseases

Spraying, (PA1) and chainsaw certificate (NPTC201) an advantage

Competitive package including 3 bedroom accommodation

If interested contact gardens@highbeeches.com with full CV and covering letter.

VOLUNTEERS

If you would like to become part of our friendly team please contact gardens@highbeeches.com with your CV and we will be in touch.