Horticulture

First Year Apprentice Vacancy Strokestown Park House & Gardens, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Employer: Irish Heritage Trust

Duration: 2 year Horticulture Apprenticeship

Start Date: June 2026

Strokestown Park is one of Ireland’s most important historic estates, set within approximately 300 acres of parkland, woodland and formal gardens. The estate includes a Palladian house, the National Famine Museum, and a fully restored 18th century walled garden that provides a living record of Irish horticultural practice from the 1740’s to the present day. The gardens feature ornamental pleasure gardens, kitchen gardens, historic glasshouses, woodland walks and parkland trees, combining heritage conservation with contemporary sustainable horticulture. The estate is open to the public year round and plays an important educational and cultural role locally and nationally.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Horticulture Apprentice to join our garden team. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in historic garden and estate management while working towards a nationally recognised qualification in horticulture. Under the guidance of experienced horticulture professionals, the apprentice will develop practical skills, technical knowledge, and an appreciation for heritage landscapes.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Assisting with the day-to-day maintenance of historic gardens, parkland, and green spaces

• Planting, pruning, weeding, mulching, and general garden upkeep

• Growing fruit, herbs and vegetables to supply the onsite cafe

• Supporting seasonal horticultural tasks and estate projects

• Operating and maintaining basic horticultural tools and equipment

• Learning about plant identification, soil care, and sustainable gardening practices

• Assisting with seasonal horticultural tasks linked to public opening, events and garden presentation

• Learning about the role of horticulture in a public heritage and visitor attraction setting

• Adhering to health, safety, and environmental best practices

What We’re Looking For

• A genuine interest in horticulture or gardening particularly in a heritage setting

• Enthusiasm for learning traditional and modern horticultural skills

• A positive attitude, reliability and strong work ethic

• Ability to work as part of a small team and independently when required

• Willingness to work outdoors in all seasons

What We Offer

• A structured apprenticeship combining on-the-job training with formal education at the College of Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens

• Hands-on experience on a nationally important heritage site

• Mentorship from experienced horticulture and estate staff

• Opportunity to gain a recognised qualification while earning, Higher Level Certificate in Horticulture (NFQ Level 6)

• Supportive and team focused work environment