Kew Specialist Certificates in Kitchen Garden Production

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world's plants and fungi.

The role: The Kew Specialist Certificate in Kitchen Garden production is a one-year practical course at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew working full-time within the Kitchen Garden. Our Kitchen Garden sits in the corner of the original site of the Georgian walled kitchen garden at Kew. Here we grow vegetables, fruit and herbs which are used at our restaurants and sold to the public. The Kitchen Garden is home to an array of heritage and modern cultivars, plus we are trialling new crops. Our horticultural approach to the garden places emphasis on the science of crops. We have strong links with Kew's science directorate, interpreting their work that takes place around the world. The Kitchen Garden is no-dig and does not use chemicals on its crops. Instead, we use companion planting and alternative methods to combat pests and diseases. Along with the chance to undertake two weeks of work experience or a travel scholarship related to kitchen garden production.

Job requirements: This position is ideally suited to a horticultural student, who wants to further their knowledge and experience by working with Kew experts in propagation. Please upload a short cover letter (approximately 250 words) explaining your reasons for applying for this particular specialism.

Benefits: Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.