The WRAGs (Work and Retrain as a Gardener scheme) Bursary Grant

The WRAGs (Work and Retrain as a Gardener scheme) Bursary Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The Merlin Trust
Amount: Up to £500
Last Updated: August 27, 2025

Summary

The WRAGs Bursary, managed by the WFGA, offers a unique opportunity for young horticulturists aged 18-35 to receive part-time paid training while working under experienced gardeners. This program focuses on skill development through hands-on experience and access to workshops. Graduates often progress to lead their own gardening businesses or secure positions as head gardeners, making this bursary an excellent stepping stone into the horticultural industry.

Overview

The WRAGs (Work and Retrain as a Gardener scheme) Bursary The WRAGs (Work and Retrain as a Gardener scheme) is run by horticultural charity, the WFGA, who match trainees with gardens where they are trained (part-time and paid the National Living Wage) under the supervision of the owner or head gardener. Members of the charity also have access to a whole range of events and workshops, designed to develop horticultural skills. WRAGs graduates have gone on to run their own garden business, work in plant nurseries and become head gardeners.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Open to WRAGs trainees only who will still be trainees on 31st July 2025.Aged between 18 and 35. If you are over 35, but within the first 5 years of your horticultural career (including time spent training/studying), you may also apply.

Ineligibility

The funding cannot be used to supplement wages or general day-to-day costs such as subsistence.The Merlin Trust will not fund equipment, books or other consumables. We do not provide funding for living costs or costs that might be incurred while you are travelling but are not part of your visit such as rental payments for your home, covering unpaid leave etc.