A unique opportunity has arisen for a dynamic and driven kitchen gardener to be part of a friendly team on a private family estate, located on the East Sussex coast.

The majestic property sits among 90 acres of pleasure gardens, pastures and woodland in the sunniest part of the country.  The stunning gardens and property itself play host to numerous events throughout the year.  

Under the Head Gardener, the existing team manage the gardens, which are around 15 acres in size, however a vacancy has arisen for an experienced Kitchen Gardener to manage a 1.5 acre Soil Association certified Victorian walled garden that has been modernised. The walled garden contains a variety of staple fruit and vegetables there is also the opportunity to grow more unusual varieties. Kitchen Gardener will be responsible for the kitchen garden, orchard and second greenhouse and the supplies of fresh fruit and vegetables to the house. He / She will be required to carry out sowing and communicate with the house on the fruit and vegetable required throughout various times of year and for upcoming events. The orchard contains apple trees, quinces, pears, soft fruit and a fruit cage to be developed to look more decorative. 

The ideal candidate should be passionate about food in relation to fruit and vegetable growing and know how they can be prepared.  You must hold a level 2 horticultural qualification at least, with considerable experience and a confident approach to growing produce.  You will also need to be an organised and proactive person with good record keeping abilities. In addition, the estate gardening team participate in a local in bloom a community horticultural group devoted to enhancing the local village environment and support for this programme will be required (during the working day), from time to time as well as mentoring trainees as necessary. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a Kitchen Gardener with a real passion and drive for horticulture to work within a close-knit team on this prestigious and historic estate. The Head Gardener encourages career growth and development and would be happy to support trainings, development programmes, should the budget allow for that year. The owners also keep bees on the estate therefore if there was an interest or you have experience in beekeeping, there is an opportunity there to get involved.