The Centre for Excellence in Heritage Horticulture
We offer a number of full time training opportunities within the centre, including studentships at Threave and Kellie, and apprenticeships at Inverewe and Pitmedden.

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.

Organic Gardening Studentship at Kellie Castle
Since 2005 the Trust have offered the one year studentship at it’s Organic Garden at Kellie Castle, giving prospective students the opportunity to learn the practical skills taught at Threave, but with a focus on organic gardening techniques and skills.

For further information on all Studentships, and for application forms, please refer to the ‘downloads’ section of this page.

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
• A modern Apprenticeship at Pitmedden

For further information on all apprenticeships, and for application forms, please refer to the ‘downloads’ section of this page.

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 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 Crathes Castle. The placements begin on 1 September and last for 12 months.

Click here to get details on how to apply at the HBGBS website.