You must have a strong understanding of horticultural principles and a passion to share your knowledge with others.
Whilst formal horticultural training is NOT essential for the position, you must be able to demonstrate understanding of
plant propagation, composting, soil management and organic weed control, fruit and vegetable growing, and basic
pruning technique.
Most importantly, you will have excellent communication skills, and experience working with a range of people, either
in a professional or previous volunteering capacity. You will have strong organisational skills and be able to plan,
coordinate and deliver a range of activities tailored to a wide range of diverse audiences. You will have experience of
working with volunteers and will be able to develop and grow our volunteering capacity and opportunities.
You will be passionate about the natural world, horticulture, and its role in enhancing positive impacts on the
environment.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist the Educational Gardener in overseeing the development and delivery of our volunteer engagement and
opportunity programme through activities, events and initiatives.
• Assist the Educational Gardener in the management of the community growing space and liaise with the
Development Manager on the management of the learning facilities within the Community Learning Hub.
• Assist the Educational Gardener in the monitoring and maintenance of the public gardens within Castlebank Park.
• Lead or assist as appropriate in the delivery of volunteer or partner activity in association with partner
organisations including Clydesdale Community Initiatives and Skills Exchange Scotland.
• Assist in the development of community projects including the food growing scheme.
• Liaise with, and where appropriate work with, other organisations/partners to provide and educate on horticultural
activities.
• Maintain safe outdoor working practices and strict adherence to relevant Health & Safety legislation.
• Participate in community events held at the Horticultural Centre including plant sales, guided tours, open days etc.
• Identify opportunities for volunteer development and upskilling.
• Provide support to volunteers as appropriate.
• Undertake any other duties as required by the Horticultural Centre.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience of working with and supporting a wide range of community groups and individuals with additional
support needs.
• Experience of working with volunteers and supporting volunteer rotas / work programmes.
• Horticultural qualification or demonstrable equivalent experience, either through extensive personal experience, in
a nursery, garden centre or public garden.
• The ability to prioritise workload and to work on your own initiative.
Desirable Criteria
• Knowledge of mental health conditions and learning difficulties.
• Experience of ecological and biodiversity activities.
• Interest or knowledge in Lanark’s history and Castlebank Park’s significance.
Please note that any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure Scotland [Protection of
Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007] Scheme approval or Scheme update.