Horticultural Training Scheme

The MacRobert Trust Horticultural Training Scheme accepts up to six trainees each year. Trainees are paid the National Minimum Wage and provided with accommodation.  Placements run for one year with a second year available to trainees who would benefit from this progression.

This training programme of full-time, hands-on practical training is undertaken whilst trainees assist our professional gardens team in the maintenance and development of the Trust’s extensive ornamental and productive horticultural training gardens. Trainees are based primarily at our flagship Douneside House Garden which is an RHS Partner Garden and an RHS Qualifications Approved Centre.

Additionally, full training and assessment towards the achievement of the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture is funded and undertaken in-house throughout the year. Training and assessment in pesticide application PA1/PA6 and chainsaw operation CS30 is also part-funded and carried out in-house, allowing trainees to achieve and practice these important certificates of competence.

​Trainees range from recently qualified horticultural college students to new entrants and career changers.  The training scheme is designed to develop and progress practical horticultural skills and enhance professional career options. This is done through a structured programme of: hands-on training, craft-skill development and proficiency; machinery use and maintenance; RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical horticulture; PA1/6 and CS30 Certificates of Competence and immersive work experience mentored by our professional gardens team.

New entrants to horticulture will also have the opportunity to study towards the RHS Principles of Horticulture Level 2 through distance learning. The second year training programme includes three, two-week internships to gardens such as the Royal Botanic Gardens Logan, National Trust of Scotland Crathes Gardens and The Prince’s Foundation Dumfries House Gardens.

The MacRobert Trust Horticultural Training Scheme is highly successful. Since 2010, each and every MacRobert trainee has either secured full-time employment, many within prestigious gardens across the UK, or has been accepted on to further training placements such as the HBGTP and Horticulture Level 3 with the RHS.

If you would like to apply for a place on the Horticultural Training Scheme, please read the guidelines carefully before filling in the application form HTS Application Form. Applications are now open for placements at the MacRobert Trust for the Horticultural Training Scheme. Please note the first interview will be held online.

Our horticultural training program has a proven track record of success. Don’t just take our word for it – many of our trainees have gone on to achieve highly successful careers at prestigious gardens around the country. Hear from them and discover how our program can help you achieve your career aspirations.”