Horticulture​/Gardening Lecturer

How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?

At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.

That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4

DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.

Many of our schools have already introduced the 4

DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #team

OFG.

Job Title:

Horticulture/Gardening Lecturer

Location:

Syon Manor College, Isleworth, London, TW7 5AJ

Salary:  Up to £45,000.00 per annum (salary negotiable)

Hours:

37.5 hours per week | Monday to Wednesday 8.30am – 4.30pm | Thursday and Friday 8.30am – 4.00pm

Contract:

Permanent | Term Time Only
Start:  May 2026
Essential:  Full UK Driving Licence
UK applicants only – this role does not offer sponsorship

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Gardening / Horticulture Lecturer to deliver an engaging, practical and inclusive land-based curriculum to learners across Entry Level to Level
2. This role plays a key part in supporting students to develop vocational skills, confidence and independence, while achieving meaningful academic and personal outcomes.

The successful candidate will contribute to the ongoing development of the Horticulture provision, ensuring programmes remain relevant, high quality and responsive to learner needs, while promoting high standards of teaching, learning and achievement.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching and Learning

Plan, deliver and assess a broad, balanced and differentiated Horticulture and land-based studies curriculum.

Teach a range of programmes, which may include horticulture, land-based studies and elements of small animal care and husbandry.

Assessment and Student Progress

Assess, monitor and track student attendance, progress, development and attainment.

Provide timely, constructive written and verbal feedback to support learners’ next steps.

Curriculum and Quality

Prepare, review and update subject materials to ensure a high-quality learning experience.

Ensure teaching and learning meets internal quality standards and external inspection requirements.

Wider College Contribution

Contribute to marketing, promotion and recruitment activities for land-based programmes.

Work collaboratively with colleagues to maximise student outcomes and maintain high standards of provision.

Experience and Qualifications Required

GCSE Maths and English at grades A–C / 4–9 (or equivalent).

Experience with in the UK horticulture industry.

UK QTS desirable

Up-to-date knowledge of current developments in horticulture and land-based studies (including small animal care where applicable).

Experience of working effectively with learners from a wide range of backgrounds.

Full UK Driving Licence

This role is ideal for a passionate horticulture professional who is committed to inspiring learners and developing a high-quality, practical land-based education offer

About Us

Syon Manor College is a new post-16 provision for young people with autism and complex needs. The college will offer a broad curriculum of academic, vocational and life skills learning including BTECs, GCSEs, Functional Skills and ASDAN accreditations which will work towards Employability or Independence and Duke of Edinburgh qualifications.

For over 19 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.

We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.

Why join Options Autism?

We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will…