Gardener

THE CALDECOTT FOUNDATION LTD; Smeeth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A charitable organization is seeking a Gardener to assist in maintaining properties and grounds. The role requires practical gardening skills and a UK driving licence. Candidates should have at least 3 years of horticulture experience and be physically capable of handling demanding tasks. The position offers a salary of £19,047.60 pro rata and various benefits, including a health cashback scheme and matched pension contributions. Closing date for applications is 16th January 2026.

Benefits

Health cashback scheme

Matched pension scheme

Employee assistance programme

Retail discounts

Cycle to work scheme

Will writing service

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a horticulture role.
• Ability to carry out planned and reactive gardening tasks.
• Physically capable of handling heavy objects and working on feet.

Responsibilities

• Provide gardening and maintenance assistance.
• Ensure safety and security of properties and grounds.
• Maintain outdoor spaces, including planting, weeding, and litter clearance.

Skills

Gardening tasks

Operating gardening machinery

Practical skills

Full, UK, Valid Driving Licence

Job description

Gardener

Reports to: Maintenance Manager / Registered Managers

Hours: 30 hours per week

Salary: £19,047.60 (pro rata’d)

ABOUT US

The Caldecott Foundation has been helping children build a future for over 110 years. We provide schools, homes and therapeutic services to children and young people. We are passionate about improving outcomes for our young people, encouraging life skills, and developing their social skills through play and education, whilst having fun. We pride ourselves on providing our children and young people with exciting opportunities and an outstanding environment to live in.

JOB PURPOSE

We are looking for someone to provide gardening and assistance with maintenance at our properties and grounds to ensure that they are kept safe, secure and in good condition. Working to a high standard, in a safe and secure manner, whilst being sensitive to the needs of the staff and young people in the building.

WHAT KIND OF PERSON DO WE NEED?

Someone who:

• Can carry out a variety of planned and reactive gardening tasks, varying in nature, including Upkeep of the gardens and outdoor areas, Strimming, mowing, planting, weeding, tending to the plants, leaf blowing, Keeping outdoor spaces clear of litter, moss and debris, Operating and maintaining gardening machinery.
• Has a Full, UK, Valid Driving Licence, with access to a car.
• Has a Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a horticulture role.
• Is practical and enjoys working outside.

Please see the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

As the role is physically demanding the applicant must have the ability to lift and handle large/heavy objects, be able to bend, reach, push, pull, load, unload climb and work safely at height. Ability to predominantly work on their feet during working hours and through the course of the day.

WHAT WE CAN GIVE YOU

The benefits you receive will increase over time in recognition of your commitment and dedication and include:

• Salary: £19,047.60 (pro rata’d)
• a health cashback scheme (which covers you and up to four children).
• a matched company pension scheme with up to 5% matched employer contributions.
• an employee assistance programme.
• vouchers and discounts off retail, food, and entertainment.
• a cycle to work scheme.
• will writing service.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The children and young people we support come from many different backgrounds, and we believe our workforce should reflect and celebrate that diversity. We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and lived experiences who share our commitment to helping children build brighter futures.

SOUND LIKE A MATCH?

Please click apply.

Please note, the Caldecott Foundation is committed to safeguarding children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check in line with safer recruitment guidelines.

Closing date: Friday 16th January 2026