Applications open for fully funded 12-month horticulture bursary
ASPIRING gardeners are being offered the chance to train in one of Wales’ most historic and diverse garden settings.
Aberglasney Gardens has opened applications for its 2026/27 12-month Student Bursary Scheme — a fully funded programme designed to give hands-on horticultural experience in a working heritage garden.
Successful applicants will spend a year immersed in the renowned Carmarthenshire gardens, gaining practical training across all core UK gardening tasks while working alongside experienced professionals.
Director Helen Scutt said the scheme provides wide-ranging experience across traditional and modern horticulture.
“Our bursary scheme is fully funded and covers a wide range of subjects,” she said.
“It focuses on core horticultural practices including pruning techniques, plant husbandry, turf care and propagation, whilst also giving a comprehensive insight into kitchen garden management, woodland garden maintenance and elements of both hard and soft landscaping.
“Since our gardens are ever evolving, we are often able to provide students with unique and valuable opportunities to participate in significant landscape projects.”
Recent large-scale projects have included the redevelopment of the Upper Walled Garden and the celebrated Ninfarium, with students playing an active role in both design and ongoing care.
Supportive learning environment
Students benefit from regular contact with the Gardens’ Director and Assistant Head Gardener, with a safe and supportive learning environment provided throughout the year. International applicants are welcome, and secure on-site accommodation is available.
Among this year’s bursary students is Hannah Finnemore, originally from Norfolk, who said Aberglasney’s welcoming atmosphere drew her to apply.
Before joining the team, Hannah completed an RHS course with Coleg Sir Gar and was already familiar with the gardens.
“When I started at Aberglasney and looked closely, I could see how the planting choices were horticulturally interesting to me and diverse, as well as modern in choice, whilst remaining sympathetic to the historic features and surroundings,” she said.
“I love that everyone is enthusiastic to improve the gardens even more and the project assignments are an interesting challenge for me. I hope to continue working in a garden like this after I complete my bursary year and to develop my own garden design style.”
The closing date for applications is Friday, April 10, 2026, with interviews scheduled for the final week of April.
Further details and application forms are available via the Aberglasney website.
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