Apprentice Gardener - fixed term (20 months)
The Vacancy
Emmanuel College (known as ‘Emma’) is located in the heart of Cambridge, yet the extensive grounds are beautiful and peaceful. The historic College grounds are located on the site of a thirteenth–century Dominican Priory. They are a haven of spacious lawns, rare trees, and tranquil ponds, which are known for our families of ducks. We are committed to biodiversity within our gardens, which are home to a large variety of wildlife. The borders are arrayed with a range of wildflowers & verdant planting, alongside beehives & insect hotels. Our buildings range from the medieval Old Library to our Classical Revival Chapel, to our café (Fiona's), & basement Bar. Sometimes it's easy to forget that we are only a few metres from Cambridge's vibrant city centre!
We are seeking a keen Apprentice Gardener to join our friendly and supportive team. Responsible to the Head Gardener, the purpose of the role is to carry out the highest possible standard of mowing and horticultural work in the College grounds. The ideal candidate will be conscientious, hardworking and reliable. You should also be committed to producing work of a high standard and be able to work as part of a team and with minimum supervision when required. A knowledge of plants, mowing techniques and first aid is desirable, the willingness to learn about these areas of work is essential. This is a fixed term, full-time position working 40 hours per week. Further details can be found within the Job Description.
‘Emma’ has a reputation as an inclusive, vibrant, and friendly community. It is home to around 700 students (under and postgraduate), 90 Fellows and 170 college staff and managed, overall, by the Master, Bursar and Senior Tutor. Being employed at ‘Emma’ means being a part of long-standing College community, steeped in history and prestige.
In return, ‘Emma’ can offer, amongst other benefits:
- generous 25 days annual leave, in addition to bank holidays (including, in catering department, Easter, Summer, and Christmas closures)
- excellent contributory pension schemes
- discretionary Christmas bonus
- free meal when on duty
- access to the college gym and swimming pool
Closing date for applications is 9 am Monday 20th April 2026.
Emmanuel College is an equal opportunities employer. We have a policy of equality of opportunity for all staff. Applications are welcome regardless of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or age.
The College reserves the right to withdraw the advert before the closing date if there is significant interest in the position.
The Company
Emmanuel College, affectionately known as ‘Emma’ is set in extensive, beautiful (yet peaceful) grounds, in central Cambridge. With a reputation as an inclusive, vibrant, and friendly community, Emma is home to around 700 students (under and postgraduate), 90 Fellows and 170 college staff and is managed, overall, by the Master, Bursar and Senior Tutor.
Being employed at Emma means being a part of long-standing College community, steeped in history and prestige.
The Benefits
Excellent Pension Schemes
Private Healthcare Options
Travel to Work Loan Scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
Generous Annual Leave
Free Lunch On-Site
On-Site Pool & Gym
Training & Development
Documents
Emmanuel College
St Andrew's St, Cambridge CB2 3AP
hr@emma.cam.ac.uk
01223 334222