Monkton Wyld Court Kitchen Garden is a unique growing experience. We have a Victorian walled garden with 3 polytunnels growing seasonal annual vegetables for Monkton Wyld Court Old Kitchen. The kitchen feeds on average 20 people a day throughout the year, although during the busy summer months this number can rise up to 60+. The garden is run on organic principles with low inputs, and we are currently low till, working towards the possibility of no dig. We propagate all of our vegetables and grow for the full season; this has challenges, although the microclimate of the garden and polytunnels mean that we are able to extend the season well. Additionally, we have a soft fruit growing area with a couple of tiny orchards.
You will be working alongside the Garden Coordinator for the majority of your work, although at times you may be asked to work alone or with other volunteers on organized projects. You will need to have a competent understanding of basic gardening etiquette and some knowledge of growing vegetables, along with a willingness to work in a low till organic garden. We work 5 days a week, usually 9-5 pm with breaks for lunch and tea; however, these hours may fluctuate depending on weather conditions. It is important that you are aware of this and able to be flexible with your time, as is the way with growing food. Growing food and preparing the land can be a physically demanding job, so you will need to be fit and able. The garden is part of a wider residential community, and with this, there are communal domestic duties required on a weekly basis. At busier times of the year, the garden team may assist in other areas such as the farm, house, and kitchen. The nature of living in community is unique and can be incredibly rewarding, but personal resilience and awareness are necessary for longevity.
The Ideal Candidate
1. Will be ready to commit to a long-term position working as the garden assistant.
2. Will be physically and mentally fit and able, and happy to work outside in all weathers.
3. Be self-motivated and have a keen interest in growing food.
4. Have some knowledge of growing food.
5. Be flexible and open to working intentionally.
6. Be able to follow instructions well and, if required, work unassisted or alongside volunteers.
7. Be keen to learn and experience growing food for a community.
Not Necessary but Favourable
1. Be a keen cook and be open to the possibility of occasionally cooking for the community with our homegrown produce.
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