Established in 2006, the Historic & Botanic Garden Training Programme (HBGTP) provides an opportunity for passionate and committed gardeners to develop their career in horticulture.
Trainees work full time, earning a salary, while developing professional skills in some of the UK’s best historic and botanic gardens. To date, the programme has trained over 300 trainees, in gardens such as Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Trentham Estate, Walmer Castle and Newby Hall. Through sharing professional skills and strengthening gardens teams, the HBGTP has made a significant contribution towards securing the future of our historic gardens.
There are 17 trainee places available and placements are for 12 months, starting in September each year. For 2025, placements are being offered in: Aldourie Castle; Audley End House and Gardens (English Heritage); Birmingham Botanical Gardens; Fulham Palace House and Garden; Hatfield House; Helmingham Hall Gardens; Newby Hall; Osborne (English Heritage); Picton Castle and Gardens; The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens; Trentham Estate; Walmer Castle and Gardens (English Heritage); Winterbourne House and Garden; Wrest Park (English Heritage).
“It gave me the chance to connect with a peer group who share my interest in horticulture. Completing the projects allowed me to work academically as well as practically, and I received considered, professional feedback on my work. HBGTP also offered me the opportunity to work in a wonderful location!”– Genevieve Slater, Former trainee at Aldourie Castle
- Salary: £11.44 per hour
- Contract: Fixed-Term
- Application deadline: 23rd of March 2025
- Interviews will take place in May, in the various placement gardens.
