91ÇÑ×Ó

Green Skills Programme

Gain practical experience by working alongside our skilled horticulturists

The Green Skills Programme operates one Saturday per month from January to December. It offers individuals aged 18+ without a relevant horticultural qualification a unique opportunity to build practical skills and knowledge in horticulture. Participants can join the program at any time and continue for 12 months. For example, if you join in March you would complete the programme the following February.

Each session focuses on developing a specific skill linked to industry careers, along with engaging in general seasonal horticultural activities. While the programme provides valuable experience and insight into horticultural careers, it is important to note that participation does not guarantee employment.

What you’ll do

Below is an outline of some of the skills you will work on throughout the programme, along with the corresponding career. While we aim to stick to the schedule, sessions may change due to availability, weather conditions, and other factors.

  • Basic pruning â€“ Heritage gardening
  • Propagation by seed (hardy annuals) â€“ Production horticulture
  • Mulching â€“ Groundskeeping or Soil science
  • Basic plant identification, nomenclature â€“ Botany, Head gardener
     
Where could it lead

The Green Skills Development Programme is designed to provide you with an introductory skill set in a diverse range of horticultural practices. It can be a first step towards various career paths in the industry.

What you’ll need
We encourage anyone passionate about plants, nature, and the outdoors to apply, especially if you are looking to turn that passion into a career. No prior horticultural knowledge or experience is required.
What you’ll get

As a Green Skills Programme participant, you'll receive:

  • Horticultural Skills: Learn practical skills such as propagation, planting, garden maintenance, pruning, and more
  • Interpersonal Skills: Build on transferable skills such as teamwork, confidence, and effective communication
  • Networking: Meet like-minded people at the start of their horticultural journey and learn from experienced horticulturists about careers in the industry
PPE will be provided for the duration of the session. If needed, we can also support with travel expenses and outdoor clothing for the duration of the session.

Next steps

To view and apply for available opportunities, visit the relevant application portal below. 

If you have further questions, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or email the New Shoots team at [email protected]. 
 
Please note: The application portal is managed by Better Impact on behalf of the RHS. When applying for the Green Skills Programme, you will be governed by both the RHS and Better Impact’s privacy notices. Please read both privacy notices before you apply. 

See the range of options on offer

Browse our programmes

Learn about the initiative to promote horticultural careers

What is New Shoots?

If you have a question on work experience, please see our Frequently Asked Questions section. 

FAQs

Contact us
For more information or if you have a question, please get in touch with the New Shoots team. 


E-mail:
[email protected]

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91ÇÑ×Ó 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.