MacRobert Trust: Horticultural Training Grant Scheme

MacRobert Trust: Horticultural Training Grant Scheme

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The MacRobert Trust
Last Updated: March 10, 2026

Summary

The MacRobert Trust Horticultural Training Scheme offers hands-on training for up to six trainees annually, providing them with accommodation and a salary at the National Minimum Wage. Trainees engage in practical horticultural skills development while assisting professional gardens teams, and they receive training towards RHS qualifications. The program also includes internships at renowned gardens and is ideal for new entrants and those changers in horticulture. Applications for the 2024/25 cycle are open until April 12, 2024.

Overview

Background 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. 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. 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.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. ​Trainees range from recently qualified horticultural college students to new entrants and career changers. New entrants to horticulture and current or recently qualified horticulture students from United Kingdom.Whilst previous horticulture experience or qualifications are not prerequisites to apply, you will need to demonstrate real enthusiasm and commitment in order to be selected.