Gardener; Maternity Cover Job Canterbury area,England UK,Outdoor/Nature/Animal Care

To personally maintain designated areas, using own initiative, forward plan with the Head Gardener redevelopments, maintenance schedules both routine and seasonal.

Principle Tasks

To assist other gardeners where required.
To assist with new garden and landscape projects as required.
To help grow and care for plants in the nursery which will include a weekend rota through the summer season.
To maintain and develop a full range of gardening skills and knowledge.
To share knowledge with other members of the team, Apprentices and volunteers.
To be adaptable in your working practices, in line with the gardens philosophy.
To have a willingness to garden organically and with consideration to the environment and biodiversity.
The position holder should expect to work in cold and wet conditions, however appropriate protective clothing will be provided.
As an employee of the Dean and Chapter of Canterbury to fully endorse, understand and exercise the roles and responsibilities contained within the Dean and Chapters Health and Safety policy which is set out in the Staff Handbook.
To carry out any reasonable task that may be required by the Dean and Chapter.

The personal specification below indicates the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required to undertake the role effectively.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

2 years proven work experience in a similar role
Holder of a RHS Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture or equivalent.
Experience in the use of garden machinery.
Comprehensive plant knowledge and ability to identify plants.
Possess a high degree of attention to detail.
Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of horticulture and techniques, methods of working based on practical experience.
Understanding of and sympathy with organic gardening with a willingness to adopt new gardening practices as set out by the Head Gardener.
A confident, practical gardener with the desire to create beautiful gardens, with aesthetics at the heart of all you do.
Ability to take and give direction as needed when working with the Head Gardener, garden occupiers, volunteers, and other members of the team.

Desirable Knowledge and Skills

A garden related specialism of your own e.g. propagation skills, a particular plant love, glasshouse work or an unusual gardening skill.
Holder of a recognised chainsaw handling certificate.
Experience of working in a large public garden.
A valid First Aid Certificate.
Full driving licence.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively.

A proactive and motivated individual who is ready to take on the task of creating and maintaining beautiful gardens.
Enjoyment of interaction and communication with members of staff and with the public.
Sufficiently fit and active enough to fulfil the requirements of the position which will include heavy lifting item such as bags of compost and bending to weed borders etc.
Ability to work outdoors in all weathers.
Possess a real love of gardening and plants.

Canterbury Cathedral is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England and symbolic leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Located in Canterbury, Kent, it is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and forms part of a World Heritage Site.