Walberton and Binsted Nurseries recently advertised jointly for a YoungHort seasonal work package. The aim of the opportunity was to help ensure that our industry has a future supply of capable managers and technologists and was aimed at those intending to develop a long term career in horticulture. Whilst the position was offered as a 3 month, paid work experience package we were delighted when an opportunity arose quite by accident to host Caitlin Sawyer for a 3 week placement.

Caitlin Sawyer – YoungHort Aus Ambassador

Caitlin is an Ambassador for YoungHort Australia, which is closely aligned with YoungHort UK, and was the 2014 winner of the BBM Sir John Pagan Scholarship awarded by the Australian Institute of Horticulture. The scholarship afforded Caitlin the opportunity to travel to the UK for the Horticultural experience of a lifetime! Caitlin was awarded the scholarship because of her passion for Horticulture, which certainly shone throughout her travels…..not only did Caitlin work at Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants and have a hand in putting together their 20th Gold medal award winning garden at the 2015 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, but she also worked at the Eden Project, RHS Wisley and of course……here at Walberton Nursery! Of her time here with us Caitlin said, “I had an absolute ball! This experience at Walberton Nursery gave me the opportunity to see every facet of the nursery industry on such a large scale. In the short time I spent there I learnt so much from their team which was just an absolute pleasure to be a part of!”

Click the link to keep up to date with YoungHort Australia…..

Katie Percival – YoungHort UK Ambassador

With Caitlin having returned safely to Aus, our new YoungHort UK recruit started on 6th July for a three month placement. Katie Percival has Diplomas in Floristry and Horticulture and joins us following several years working in floristry and as a YoungHort Ambassador. Katie will be spending equal time getting to know both Walberton and Binsted Nursery’s operations, both on the production side but also in the area of Management and Administration, to give her an all round experience that she can use to further her career. More updates to come from Katie, but in the meantime, check out YoungHort UK.

We very much look forward to welcoming more YoungHorts from around the globe in the future, so keep an eye on our Jobs @ Walberton page for future opportunities or e-mail directly for more information at admin@walberton.idps.co.uk.