Gardening Specialist

Briar Hill PS has a vibrant garden environment conducive to being utilised by every student. The garden at Briar Hill has the capacity for fruit tree growth, vegetables, herb and indigenous plants.

The applicant will need a strong background in selecting, delivering and leading a gardening program. The Garden contractor would deliver lessons for 50 minutes per week in each class on 2 days, starting at 11am and finishing at 4pm. They will be paid for 10 hours work. The rate of pay per hour would be dependent on relevant knowledge, expertise, qualifications and experience. The program will be delivered 18 days per term. This would allow for a week off each term for excursions, public holidays etc.

Responsible to: The Principal
DUTIES
The Garden Specialist has overall responsibility for planning and maintaining the garden, and also plans and conducts weekly garden classes in which students learn about growing and maintaining a garden. On taking up the position you will:

• Plan a garden program that is in line with the Steiner inspired curriculum.
• Attend regular meetings at the School to facilitate the rollout of the vegetable garden, indigenous garden, along with general problem solving and planning of special events, publicity etc.
• Plan weekly garden classes, ensuring they are applicable to all participating age groups. This involves preparing up to five activities per class, creating a syllabus and preparing materials.
• Plan the planting of the vegetable garden and involve the students in the process

ESSENTIAL SKILLS, UNDERSTANDINGS AND EXPERIENCE

• Plan any development of the vegetable garden infrastructure – incorporating the pre-existing vision – and involve the school community in the process
• Be resourceful about obtaining items needed for the garden
• Work in the garden doing general gardening tasks like weeding, and completing jobs not finished by students, as well as maintaining equipment
• Coordinate and support garden volunteers, compile and update volunteer information, help coordinate volunteer events, advertise for volunteers and respond to interest from potential volunteers

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Being able to manage and facilitate garden classes with the aid of the classroom teacher in assisting with class dynamics.
• To have expertise with providing documentation and planning of an effective gardening program. 
  
• Use organic methods and materials 
• Being able to show organisational skills and the understanding of the importance of data collection, collecting worksheets, class surveys, photographic documentation, weekly records etc.
• Be resourceful about obtaining items needed for the garden
• Excellent communication skills with students and staff.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• WWCC
• VIT current registration preferred but not a necessity
• Certificates in horticulture or permaculture desirable.

SEEK link for applications.