Volunteering in a garden is also a very good way of learning new gardening techniques and picking up hints and tips from the Trust`s gardeners.

There are also a wealth of gardening books available, some of which are on sale in the Trust's shops.

Threave School of Practical Gardening
Since 1959 the Trust has run a training school for craftsmen gardeners at Threave where it runs a one year course, with special emphasis on acquiring the practical skills of amenity gardening.

For more information please email Threave.

Garden Apprenticeships
The NTS runs a garden apprenticeship scheme whereby students can gain invaluable experience of working in an NTS garden and often go on to be employed by the Trust. The scheme currently offers the following opportunities:

• An apprenticeship at Inverewe Gardens
• An apprenticeship in organic gardening at Kellie Castle

For information on a particular apprenticeship, please contact the Gardens Department.

China Partnership
The NTS currently has an exchange programme with the Lushan Botanical Gardens in China whereby exchange visits are organised for NTS and Lushan staff to visit each others gardens and gain valuable work experience in a different cultural context.

Gardening Jobs - Join Us
Please visit our vacancies page for the latest jobs and our volunteers section for placements and volunteering opportunities.

The Historic and Botanic Garden Bursary Scheme: Garden Placements
This is a unique chance to upgrade your skills through practical horticultural experience in historic and botanic gardens, including the Trust gardens at Brodick Castle, Crathes Castle and Geilston Garden. The placements begin on 1 September 2008 and last for 12 months.

Click here to get details on how to apply at the HBGBS website. The closing date for applications is Friday 9 May 2008.

Charlie Newhailes