Please note: due to the exceptionally difficult economic conditions The Botanical Gardens is currently reviewing the Botanical Horticultural Studentship and  Apprenticeship programme for  2012. If any places are to be offered in 2012 a start date for applications will be publicised on this website by the end of February 2012. Thank you for your interest in our Horticultural training.

Normally the Birmingham Botanical Gardens offer Studentships and Apprenticeships to newly qualified and entry level horticulturists who wish to further their careers in gardens where the focus is upon extensive plant collections and conservation.

What is a studentship?

Our studentships offer a paid year of practical horticulture (12 months from September: Paying National Minimum Wage) working day-to-day alongside qualified and experienced gardeners in all areas of amenity horticulture including: Ornamental horticulture Nursery propagation Tropical, arid and cool glasshouse display Computer based plant records In addition to the practical work we offer a full programme of plant identification walkrounds and lectures which reinforce and build on previously acquired knowledge.

The Botanical Horticulture Studentships offer a year of hands-on practical experience

What is an Apprenticeship?

For those under 21 beginning a career in horticulture the Apprenticeship offers a paid year of practical horticulture (12 months from September: Paying a training allowance) with day release to attend a local Horticultural college to gain an NVQ2. There is a possibility of continuing into a second year at National Minimum Wage rate to study for an NVQ3.

Studentship or Apprenticeship?

For the newly qualified horticultural student the Studentship offers ideal practical experience to build on what you have learnt at college.

For career changers with an entry level qualification the Studentship provides an ideal environment for you to gain the practical grounding and accelerated learning desired by those retraining into horticulture.

For the committed school leaver who can prove to us that they have a passion for plants our Apprenticeship  is a fantastic opportunity to launch your career. For those under 21 we offer a day release for the study of entry level qualifications.

What should I do if I'm interested?

Please download the job description and application forms below.  For September 2012 entry please apply from 1st January 2012. The completed application form should be returned by 30th April 2012.  You can download the following forms as PDF files:

Job description (Botanical Horticulture Studentship).
Application form (For Studentships and Apprenticeships, please indicate position being applied for).

For further information please contact Simon Gulliver, Plant Collections Manager.