Applications are now open for the Aberglasney Student 12-month Bursary scheme.
Students will spend the year in Aberglasney’s historic gardens gaining hands-on experience and being trained on all common UK garden tasks.
Aberglasney Gardens’ Director, Helen Scutt, said:
“Our bursary scheme is fully funded and covers a wide range of subjects. It focuses on core horticultural practices including pruning techniques, plant husbandry, turf care and propagation whilst also giving a comprehensive insight into kitchen garden management, woodland garden maintenance and elements of both hard and soft landscaping.
“Since our gardens are ever evolving, we are often able to provide students with unique and valuable opportunities to participate in significant landscape projects. Recent examples include our re-development of the Upper Walled Garden and the Ninfarium, where students have been instrumental in their design and care.”
Students will have regular contact with the garden’s Director and the Assistant Head Gardener. A safe and supportive learning environment will be provided whilst allowing the students to learn first-hand from experienced professionals. International applicants are welcome at Aberglasney and safe on-site accommodation is available for the students.
Amongst this year’s students is Hannah Finnemore. Hannah applied for the traineeship at Aberglasney as she felt it really suited her style of learning and work ethic. She particularly wanted to work at Aberglasney because she feels the friendly atmosphere really shines through everyone who visits. Hannah is originally from Norfolk and has always had an instinctive drive to explore nature. Before joining the team at Aberglasney she did the RHS course with Coleg Sir Gar which meant she was already familiar with the gardens.
“When I started at Aberglasney and looked closely, I could see how the planting choices were horticulturally interesting to me and diverse, as well as modern in choice, whilst remaining sympathetic to the historic features and surroundings,” said Hannah. “I love that everyone is enthusiastic to improve the gardens even more and the project assignments are an interesting challenge for me. I hope to continue working in a garden like this after I complete my bursary year and to develop my own garden design style.”
The closing date for completed applications is Friday, 10 April 2026, with interviews set for the last week of April. The application form is available on the website: https://aberglasney.org/join-the-team/ or send an email to: assistantheadgardener@aberglasney.org
