Apprentice Gardener

Horticultural Apprentice - 2 year programme

£9.83 per hour plus fantastic benefits

Average 40 hours per week across 5 days. Winter Hours: 8am–4pm | Summer Hours: 7:30am–4:30pm | Weekend shift every 6 weeks, with time given back in lieu. Based onsite - BA7

Due to the location of the Estate a driving license is recommended for this role

Please note that if you already hold a Level 2 or higher qualification in a related field, we will be unable to progress with your application

Advert closes: 27th April 2026

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Grow your future in one of the most beautiful estates in Somerset.

Our Horticultural Apprentice

This is a brilliant opportunity to begin your horticultural career in a hands-on, inspiring environment. Working across the gardens and wider estate, you will build practical skills, grow your plant knowledge, and learn from experienced mentors while progressing towards a Level 2 Horticulture and Landscape Operative qualification. No two days will be the same, and every day will bring the chance to learn something new..

A fantastic workshop program will enhance your horticultural skills and regular plant identification sessions will extend your plant knowledge. In the second year there will be an opportunity to undertake a bursary placement to a garden of your choice, to broaden your horticultural skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Work across multiple garden teams including Ornamental, Kitchen Garden, Woodland, Turf, and Nursery
• Assist with a wide variety of horticultural tasks
• Attend weekly college study day at Cannington College, Bridgwater
• Create a weekly journal of your time in the garden to build portfolio for assessment
• Attend weekly college study sessions
• Take part in regular plant identification assessments
• Support the delivery of garden tours and workshops
• Develop and maintain an allocated area of the garden

What we can offer

• A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
• Peace of mind with Employee Life Cover, providing your nominated loved one with 2x your salary.
• Support from our Employee Assistance Programme, including unlimited 24/7 remote GP appointments for you and your family.
• Look after your wellbeing with complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
• Stay in shape with complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes.
• Access to our Cycle to Work scheme, supporting wellbeing and sustainable commuting.
• Complimentary staff meal when onsite – crafted by our dedicated kitchen team, often featuring fresh produce from our estate.
• Enjoy shopping in both our shops on estate and online with 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
• Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens, including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
• We value your hard work and recognise your achievements through our colleague recognition programme – Newt Awards, with the opportunity to achieve amazing rewards, including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
• Discover exclusive perks with discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a 30% discount at our restaurants.
• A team that knows how to have fun with regular team engagement activities, including Fun Squad events.
• Up to 30 days annual leave each year for our full-time team.

What we're looking for

• Interest in plants and horticulture
• Strong work ethic
• Eagerness to learn and develop new skills
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions
• Reliable, organised, and punctual approach to work
• Effective communication with colleagues and visitors
• Curious, proactive, and open-minded attitude
• Basic Microsoft Office skills for documentation and research

Where you'll be working

The Gardens Team (Gardens, Edibles, Nursery, Turf & Woodlands) are dedicated to understanding, developing, curating, protecting, and managing The Newts living collection of plants, in an environment where visitors are encouraged to experience and learn about plants, garden history, habitats and to enjoy the gardens. The team run several events and workshops for our visitors over the year which include the popular daily garden tours.

Who are we- The Newt in Somerset

Nestled within an expanse of rolling fields and steeped in ancient history, our luxury country estate stands as a haven of refined elegance, inviting guests to explore acres of captivating gardens, meandering pathways, and enriching exhibitions - accessible 364 days a year for our members. Our hotel extends a warm welcome, offering a home-away-from-home experience where impeccable service flourishes in an ambiance of unassuming sophistication. Beyond the estate, the Newt's essence remains tangible, with our Ecommerce teams delivering our finest products to homes, while media and membership endeavours keep them informed of our latest developments. Behind the scenes, a tapestry of talented teams - from Housekeeping to HR, Finance to Farming - collaborates harmoniously, crafting an unforgettable journey of growth, development, and innovation, where every contribution creates unparalleled experiences.

INDAVR