Head Gardener

Firstly, note that we are more than just a college.

We are a college, a country estate, a dairy farm, a wedding venue, a conference centre, an arable farm, a tourist destination, the birthplace of Thomas Hardy and, most crucially, the only provider of land-based studies for 60 miles in any direction. We have a major strategic role in the development of Dorset’s rural economy, which although firmly rooted in our heritage as an agricultural provider, now spans the full range of land-based studies and beyond, from entry-level to a degree.

Following a dynamic period, the College now has a financial health rating of ‘Good’, rewritten the Strategic Plan, and developed an Estate Masterplan for the next ten years, alongside confirming our Ofsted ‘Good’ grade. We have a strong platform to make the improvements required to continually strive towards outstanding status and we are looking forward to the future with ambition and optimism. The nature of the College, however, is much more than just an Ofsted grade. We are at the heart of Dorset, both emotionally and literally. Engagement and strategic positioning are vital to ensure we continue to grow both our reputation and student numbers.

We need staff who will move us to the next step as part of a forward-looking organisation, rooted in the landscape of Dorset and the history of the estate. What binds us to the past is important, but it is not what defines our future; the essence of Kingston Maurward is about people, attitudes and the culture we all inherit and develop.

We inspire our students, visitors and other team members

We challenge ourselves to do the best we can

We care for each other, our local community and the environment

“If you are doing these three things every day – you are doing your job.”

Luke Rake, Principal & Chief Executive

“It’s a positive, friendly working environment.”

“Everything is communicated clearly, and you are trusted to do the job. There’s flexibility around your working hours too.”

“There is a real passion among the students and teaching staff.”

“There are lots of training opportunities both internally and externally.”

“It’s a great feeling knowing you are helping students, other colleagues – it makes it feel like a worthwhile job!”

“There is supportive line management across the whole estate.”

An experienced team of staff

Many of our staff have worked or volunteered locally, regionally, or across the world, doing a variety of projects or job roles, whether that’s managing breeding programmes for marine animals including sharks, penguins, and otters, or coral reef restoration projects in the Maldives, this diverse range of experience allows both our students and staff to learn from industry experts.

Chelsea Flower Show

In 2019, we won a Silver Gilt Award for our Artisan Garden at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Led and organised by our Horticulture department, this involved many staff and students from various departments across the campus. We have now booked for 2022.

External events

We have several commercial businesses on-site, including weddings, conferences, Animal Park & Gardens, The Estate Shop, Cellar Bar & Café, and external equine events.

Staff Awards

Awarded monthly, our ‘Staff Member of the Month’ certificates are voted for by staff across the estate, to recognise and reward those who go the extra mile.

Cadet Force Adult Volunteers

We have our own Combined Cadet Force, CCF, on campus which is run by volunteers. All staff, whether academic or support, can join – training will be provided.

Staff Development

As part of our termly Staff Development Week, you have the opportunity to try practical activities which our students enjoy regularly, from kayaking to blacksmithing, to floristry and tractor driving. We are always looking for staff to share their skills and talents.