kitchen (productive) gardener

Based at:                                The Heath House

Reports to:                              Head of Productive Gardens 

Employment type:                   Full-time

Normal hours:                         Flexible, 5 days out of 7

Basic salary:                           Dependent on experience and qualifications, up to £28,000 p.a.

Annual Leave:                         33 days p.a., including bank holidays

Statutory Entitlements:           All statutory entitlements, including SSP, workplace pension etc  

About The Heath House

The Heath House is a private family estate with extensive gardens and woodlands. As custodians, we are in the early stages of planning a restoration and reimagining project aimed at preserving the estate's buildings and landscape. Our vision for the estate includes sustainable productive garden management.

Position Summary:

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Productive Gardens, the Productive (Kitchen) Gardener is responsible for cultivating high-quality, edible produce in line with the estate’s food vision, while maintaining an aesthetically appealing garden. The role involves supporting daily care, cultivation, and maintenance of the Walled Garden, as well as contributing to various garden improvement projects (Orchard and future productive garden developments). The ideal candidate will have solid experience in growing fruits and vegetables, along with the ability to lead or collaborate effectively within a team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Productive Garden Maintenance & Development: Deliver the Kitchen Gardens development plan and planting schedule, ensuring the gardens are maintained to professional horticultural standard. This includes the cultivation of edible produce, adhering to organic and no-dig gardening principles.
• Produce Cultivation & Harvesting: Provide high-quality produce aligned with the estate’s harvesting schedule and specifications to support the Main House. Maintain accurate records of all produce supplied.
• Engagement: Enhance the family experience by representing the values and vision of the estate, working collaboratively across the Estate.
• Professional Development: Stay informed on industry developments by participating in professional societies and organizations. Share knowledge and ideas to continually improve horticultural practices, striving for excellence in all areas of cultivation.
• Horticultural Excellence: Apply the highest horticultural standards and techniques to establish and maintain the Kitchen Gardens. This includes routine maintenance and special projects as needed.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• A minimum of two years of horticultural experience in a Kitchen Garden or similar environment.
• Certificate/Diploma or bachelor's degree in horticulture, or a related field, with 2-3 years of experience; or 4 years of equivalent horticultural experience and training.
• Knowledge of organic cultivation practices is desirable.
• Advanced understanding of horticultural techniques and practices, including planting, weed identification and control, and the specific cultural needs of edible plants.
• Strong general plant identification skills, especially related to productive gardening.
• Relevant machinery certifications and permaculture spraying (PA1 certificate) prioritising non-chemical pest and disease control methods.
• Adequate IT skills for implementing efficient management systems and records are an essential requisite.
• Full and clean UK driving license.

Terms and Conditions

-      Competitive remuneration package up to £28,000 p.a. to be discussed with short listed candidates.

-       Professional membership and reasonable professional development and training costs covered.

-       Workplace pension scheme available.

Application Process

Candidates should send their application letter, CV, and references to Michael Walker at nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com