Become a more proficient Gardener

Exciting opportunities to become a more proficient gardener!

Local gardens in South Hampshire and Chichester Harbour now have vacancies for anyone who wants to improve their practical gardening skills.

The “Work and Retrain As a Gardener Scheme” (or WRAGS) provides men and women of all ages with the opportunity to work for 2 days a week for 12 months in a carefully sourced garden, under the instruction of a garden owner or head gardener. This national scheme is coordinated locally by Liddy Davidson who sets up placements and supports trainees. Registration fees are £375 for trainees and £125 for garden owners, with a non-taxable training allowance of £5 per hour paid to the trainee by the garden owner. Liddy says that “Everyone wins... garden owners benefit from the help of committed trainees who in turn gain wonderful skills for various horticultural careers”. Current vacancies include a wonderful private garden in Rowlands Castle, Tuppenny Barn, organic smallholding in Southbourne and the fascinating Harbourside in Prinsted,. The fabulous Rymans in Apuldram will be available Spring 2015.

The scheme is just one project offered by historic charity, the WFGA, (the Women's Farm and Garden Association). Members can also benefit from very useful workshops and workdays, informative newsletters, tours of gardens and members’ gatherings in local gardens.

For more information about WFGA membership/ WRAGS (whether potential trainees and garden owners) see www.wfga.org.uk , call the WFGA on 01285 658 339 or email Liddy at: Liddywfga@gmail.com

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