Freelance Lead Community Gardener
Invisible Palace Closing date: Tue, 31 Mar 2026
- Part time
- Under £10K
Mon, 16 Mar 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
Invisible Palace is seeking an experienced gardener with an interest in working alongside volunteers and staff to create sustainable community-supported gardens along the Anerley Hill edge of Crystal Palace Park. Gardening sessions take place on Fridays. These are weekly during the summer and fortnightly in autumn and winter. The role includes volunteer management, leading volunteer sessions, as well as organising two garden visits for volunteers and one plant sale per year. This is a freelance position paid at a rate of £25 per hour. Sessions run weekly from Spring to Autumn and fortnightly over winter with a one-month break over December/January. 4 hours per week for 40 weeks per year (3 hours on site, 1 hour admin). In addition, 12 3-hour afternoon sessions per year.
Job Requirements
Essential Skills, Knowledge and Experience: At least 2 years' experience working as a gardener on herbaceous borders and similar style planting Knowledge of sustainable planting / biodiversity Experience in public-facing or high-footfall spaces First Aid or willingness to train Safeguarding awareness Experience of working with a broad range of people from a variety of backgrounds with differing needs Demonstrable knowledge of garden planning and maintenance Experienced group leader or facilitator Collaborative and creative approach to working as part of a small team.
Job Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities: Plan and lead a year-long programme of Friday morning gardening activities for regular volunteers at the Vicar's Oak flower beds and at nearby sites Plan and lead monthly afternoon sessions for target groups, e.g. disabled adults, people with English as a second language, and families Plan suitable activities for the volunteers attending each session Manage volunteer administration, including pre-attendance communication with new volunteers, reminder emails to regular volunteers in good time before sessions, and record keeping relating to sessions Understand communication needs of volunteers and communicate effectively with volunteers to enable a wide range of people to take part Take responsibility for health and safety on site and always offer instruction and support to volunteers with this in mind Contribute to risk assessments and work to existing assessments Manage use of tools and equipment and ensure safety and good practice.
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Freelance Lead Community Gardener
- Salary: Under £10K
- Hours: Part time
- Artform: Education
- Role: Creative
- Contract: Contract
- Closing date: Tue, 31 Mar 2026
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Location:
| view on Google MapsLondon
Job: Freelance Lead Community Gardener
Job: Freelance Lead Community Gardener
Organisation: Invisible Palace
Postcode: SE19 2BA
How to Apply
To apply please send an email that gives examples of your earlier experience.
Explain how this experience relates to the key responsibilities and essential skills.
Please attach a recent CV.
Applications to [email protected] with subject heading – Lead Community Gardener
- Contact name: Sue Giovanni
- Contact email: [email protected]
About Invisible Palace
Inviting people to come together through shared interests for collective activity. Creating communities of interest where people from a range of backgrounds with differing skills can flourish.