Factsheet

Apprenticeships with the RHS

Offering Apprenticeships in horticulture and arboriculture, the RHS Apprenticeship programme at Level 2 requires no prior experience or horticultural qualification.

  • Applications open each Spring, with positions starting in August
  • Great starting point to kick-start a successful career
  • Work alongside our garden experts and grow your confidence, skills and knowledge
  • Gain real-life work experience and increase your  chances of securing employment

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Horticulture and Arboriculture Apprenticeship?
 If you love plants, green space and nature then the Horticultural Apprenticeship provides you with skills to establish, cultivate and maintain formal and informal gardens.

The Arboriculture Apprenticeship is perfect for those who have a passion for trees. The work of an arborist involves diverse activities such as chainsaw work, aerial tree work, pruning and using machinery.
Do I need to have a horticultural qualification?
No! You simply need a love of horticulture and the great outdoors and an enthusiasm to learn.
Is the Apprenticeship full-time?
Yes. Apprentices are employed by the RHS on a fulltime basis and learn on the job with some academic study at College (mostly residential block release). The set programme follows a two-year course, so the Apprenticeship cannot be studied part-time or online.
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply as long as you are above the age of 16. The RHS is committed to being an inclusive employer and welcomes applicants from ethnically diverse backgrounds. A good working knowledge of the English language is essential and evidence to that e ect will be requested.
Will I get paid whilst training?
Yes. The current salary for a Horticulture Apprentice is circa £22,308, so you can train with zero debt at the end of your contract. You will be provided with a uniform, and as a valued member of the team enjoy all the same benefits as full-time staff.
Where are the Apprenticeships based?
Positions are available at all five of our RHS Gardens – Wisley in Surrey, Hyde Hall in Essex, Harlow Carr in Yorkshire, Rosemoor in Devon and Bridgewater near Greater Manchester.
How do I apply?
Applications must be made online. Visit the RHS website and the work-based learning page for details on how to apply.
What can I do after I complete the Apprenticeship?
After completing the Apprenticeship, you could continue to train with the RHS on our other workbased learning programmes within our gardens, or further learning with a related vocational qualification. Alternatively, you could apply for an entry-level role in industry.

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.