Head Gardener - Historic Public Garden

Caversham Court is a Grade II listed Thamesside public garden in Reading, with both 17th and 19th century features. The gardens were recently restored to a high standard with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund. We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated head gardener to manage Caversham Court Gardens, to provide a point of contact with the community, and to integrate training for apprentices into the garden’s maintenance programme.

NVQ Level 3 in Horticulture, or an equivalent qualification, is essential. You will also have extensive relevant experience as a gardener, as well as experience both in maintaining ornamental planting areas and in dealing directly with the public. A working knowledge of sustainable practices is also required.

You will apply your knowledge and experience in maintaining the horticultural and structural elements of the park to a high standard. Your excellent interpersonal skills will be an advantage in dealing with staff, visitors, volunteers and contractors. You need to be a proactive and cooperative member of the operational team, with the ability to work to deadlines and standards with the minimum of supervision, and there will be plenty of scope for exercising your own initiative in the management of the site and in finding ways to improve enjoyment of the gardens for all user groups.

For more information, please contact Carolyn Jenkins on 0118 937 2724 or , or look at our website: http://www.reading.gov.uk/leisureandvisitors/ParksandOpenSpaces/CavershamCourt/

Please do not send a CV. For the purposes of equal opportunities, we can only accept Reading Borough Council application forms.

Closing date: 12 June 2013

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• E-mailable Form (Word)