Garden jobs

This is an exciting opportunity to join one of London’s leading city farms and play a key role in providing nature and habitats, opportunities, education, training to the local community and beyond. As a small yet growing charitable

organisation, this also offers candidates an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Vauxhall City Farm turns 50 in 2026, and you will join a team that is committed, enthusiastic and future focused.

The Community Gardener will provide continuity for the Community Garden and horticultural areas across Vauxhall City Farm during the substantive postholder’s sabbatical.

The role combines practical organic horticulture, ecological site management, habitat creation, volunteer leadership and inclusive community programme delivery. The postholder will ensure that the gardens are productive, biodiverse, welcoming and managed in a way that reflects The Farm’s commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility and community participation.

Great support has a substantial impact on small environmental charities and the people they benefit. In this role you will be delivering an established, enjoyable, professional development programme for city farms, community gardens and care farms. You'll focus on training, networking and showcase events. The role involves getting out and about, but most of the work is office work. This role does not include any practical gardening or farming activities.

Hours:                      Three days a week (22.5 hours).  Ideally to include Tuesdays.

Salary:                      Starting salary of £33,573 FTE including London Weighting.

Pension: 5% of salary for standard contracted hours after successful completion of a 3-month probation period.

Holiday: 33 days pro-rata per year including bank holidays.

Contract: 12 months at 22.5 hours a week, subject to passing the three-month probation period. 

Location:                 Co-working space in Highbury & Islington. Frequent travel around London. 

Role Overview:

To support the delivery of a popular, enjoyable programme of training, networking and events designed with and for city farms and community gardens. The programme improves the long-term viability of individual city farms and community gardens and builds the network as a whole, contributing to the sustainability of vibrant local communities throughout the capital.

The London Development Officer is part of a London team of two, working closely with the London Development Manager, and staff of city farms and community gardens, including the trustees of the London Association of City Farms and Community Gardens. The London team works with the wider team of Social Farms &  Gardens based in the UKs countries and regions.

The London programme is well-established and well-regarded.
Annual outputs include:  

· Training days designed and delivered by SF&G members

· Networking tours of community growing spaces

· Showcase events including the London Harvest Festival

Recruitment Process:

Apply by: Midday Monday 17 August 2026.

Interviews: Thursday 27 August.

Start date: As soon as possible. Ideally by 1st October.

Social Farms & Gardens is an equal opportunities employer that understands that the best employees may not always be the best at job applications or interviews.  We try to make our recruitment processes relatively stress-free.

You do not have to meet all elements of the Person Specification to be considered for the role.

We do not ask for any formal qualifications as not everyone thrives in a school setting.

We would like you to submit these three documents by email:  

· A CV

· A Personal Statement giving specific examples of your experience for each element of the Person Specification
These will be anonymised to minimise bias

· A cover page with personal details

And complete an Equal Opportunities form, online 

Full details in the Job Pack.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The Royal Parks (TRP) is a charity created in March 2017. We manage over 5,000 acres of diverse parkland, rare habitats and historic buildings and monuments in eight Royal Parks across London. These are Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, The Green Park, St James’s Park, The Regent's Park and Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park and Bushy Park.

We also manage other important public spaces including Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens. Our eight Royal Parks and other iconic green spaces are among the most visited attractions in the UK with tens of millions of visits every year.

We are now looking for a Head Gardener for Kensington Gardens with a passion for plants and horticulture with a strong interest in gardening and managing nature in a prestigious heritage landscape. This is a full-time, permanent role, working 36 hours per week.

The Benefits

• Salary of £34,743 - £39,000 per annum, depending on experience
• 26 days' annual leave plus public holidays, increasing to 29 days after 3 years’ service
• Pension scheme (3% employee contribution; up to 10% employer contribution)
• Private medical insurance and healthcare cash plan
• Employee assistance programme and access to mental health first aiders
• Learning and development opportunities
• Cycle to work scheme
• Offices in a beautiful location

The Role

Working through a climate resilience lens, with a greener gardening approach, the delivery of the Horticulture Vision places horticulture on a pedestal in the world of public parks like never before. Through the delivery of this strategy, the famous parks we proudly call The Royal Parks are set to have their horticulture raised to a new level.

As Head Gardener, you will lead the ongoing maintenance, enhancement and development of the gardens, lawns, borders and landscaped areas, ensuring they are presented to the highest standard throughout the year. You will plan and deliver seasonal planting programmes, oversee pruning, propagation, irrigation and plant health activities, and implement best-practice methods for the control of pests, diseases and weeds.

The role involves supervising and supporting gardening team members and external contractors, managing horticultural records, budgets and resources. You will promote a strong culture of health and safety across all gardening operations while contributing innovative ideas and recommendations for future garden improvements, restoration projects and long-term landscape development.

Additionally, you will:

• Supply and maintain sufficient tools, equipment and materials for gardeners and volunteers
• Monitor the performance of the landscape maintenance contractor
• Support initiatives including the Apprenticeship scheme, Biodiversity and Sustainability
• Carry out all work with the utmost care and respect for people, place and environment

About You

To be considered as a Head Gardener, you will need:

• Significant practical horticultural experience, ideally within a large estate, private garden, historic property or similar environment
• Strong plant knowledge and an understanding of seasonal garden management
• Experience leading or supervising a team
• Relevant horticultural qualifications (RHS, NVQ, City & Guilds or equivalent) are desirable
• Excellent organisational and planning skills
• A proactive, flexible and hands-on approach
• A commitment to delivering outstanding standards and attention to detail

Other organisations may call this role Gardens Manager.

We want to put everyone in the best possible position to succeed so if you think that you may need more support to complete our application process, please do get in touch.

The Royal Parks is strongly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Please note interviews will be held on Friday 4th September 2026 at our Kensington Gardens Office. 

About the National Garden Scheme

The National Garden Scheme is the most significant charitable funder of nursing charities in the country, donating £3.9 million in 2025 and over £77 million since 1927.  Our beneficiary charities include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Carers Trust, Hospice UK, The Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing and Parkinson’s UK. 

We help our garden owners open their beautiful gardens to the public, sharing their passion and raising impressive amounts of money through admission fees, refreshments and plant sales. Over 3,300 gardens open each year for the National Garden Scheme and further details about the gardens, our donations and more about the charity can be found on our website.

About the Website and Digital Marketing Manager

The ethos of the National Garden Scheme is rooted in generosity and kindness, from: our 3,300 garden owners, to our 600 county volunteers and our small team of 14 staff. Our central office in East Clandon, Surrey is a warm and welcoming place to work.

The right candidate for the role of Website and Digital Marketing Manager will be a proactive and technically confident digital professional who can combine hands-on website management with creative digital marketing expertise. The ideal candidate will have experience managing and developing WordPress websites, delivering successful digital campaigns, and using data and insights to improve online performance and audience engagement.

They will be comfortable working across multiple digital platforms, including email marketing systems, CRM databases and analytics tools, with a strong understanding of SEO, website optimisation, accessibility and GDPR requirements. Strong organisational skills are essential, as you'll be managing a varied workload, coordinating projects and working with both internal teams and external suppliers.

As a self-starter with excellent communication skills and keen attention to detail, you'll be equally at home troubleshooting website issues, testing new digital developments, creating engaging content and identifying opportunities to enhance the user experience. Experience in the charity sector, marketing automation and digital development projects would be highly advantageous.

Most importantly, you'll be enthusiastic, collaborative and adaptable, with a passion for using digital channels to engage audiences, support fundraising and help the charity achieve its goals

We’re seeking a self-motivated, creative, practical person to join our garden makeover team. Working on one of our flagship charitable programmes known as ‘Helping Hands’ this is an immensely rewarding role which has a direct impact on families we support.

This is a unique and diverse role which involves liaising with our families and then designing and delivering personalised garden makeovers for them with teams of corporate volunteers supporting. The end outcome of these projects enables children and young people with complex health needs to access their outside spaces safely which makes a huge difference to their quality of life. Many of these children struggle to leave the home environment, so a safe and accessible garden space is essential to get them outside.

For some examples of the incredible work and positive impact our Helping Hands Team have had on our families through these projects see our website: Transforming home & garden spaces | WellChild
We are also fully committed to upskilling and training the right person to enable them to do this role.

A bit about us:

WellChild, based in Cheltenham, is the national charity for seriously ill children and their families. Through a range of practical and emotional support, training and information programmes, WellChild gives children and young people with complex medical needs the best chance to thrive at home.

Purpose of the Role:

The garden makeover (Helping Hands) team provides practical support to families by enlisting the help of corporate volunteer teams from companies across the UK to undertake one-off improvement projects to create safe, accessible sensory gardens for children and young people with complex health needs.

There are six key parts to this role:

1) Meeting with our beneficiary families to identify the needs for their outside space. Using empathy and active listening to ensure you can gather all the relevant information for a successful transformation.

2) Project design and procurement of materials to deliver a suitable space, that not only meets the beneficiaries needs, but is also delivered within our time and budget specifications.

3) Compile all relevant project documentation and engage with the allocated team of corporate volunteers.

4) Deliver your design over two days (which may include overnight stays depending on project location) with an enthusiastic but often unskilled group of corporate volunteers. You will need to inspire and empower these teams in all elements of the delivery of your project and be the subject matter expert as the sole representative on site from WellChild.

5) Complete post makeover administration on our equipment and communication with the corporate volunteers.

6) Management of each makeover’s financial budgets, for equipment, materials, travel, accommodation as well as a joint monthly tool and equipment budget.

Fairly regularly to complete these garden makeovers, there is a degree of working away from home. For example, you might work on a five-week rotation consisting of two weeks conducting one makeover, over two days, each week. This is predominantly over the Spring and Summer seasons. The remaining time is utilised to undertake site visits and plan for upcoming projects with a hybrid home/office balance. Garden makeovers are completed nationwide so long and frequent travel can be required, and to compensate for this we offer a flexible TOIL policy. Over the Winter months, the role is more office based, with review of risk assessments, and planning of Spring projects. Some project preparation may be required at our store in Innsworth.

You will be able to:

• Demonstrate professional/practical DIY skills including hard landscaping to very tight deadlines
• Provide Inspiration, tutoring and leadership to the groups of volunteers to empower them in using new skills.
• Confidently build relationships quickly in order to communicate effectively, appropriately and clearly with a wide range of people.
• Prioritise own workload and meet tight deadlines, often having to be adaptable and think on your feet in order to make makeovers a success and completed on time.
• Be empathetic and sensitive to a wide range of needs and experiences.
• Develop and implement new, creative, ideas in order to deliver the best outcomes for the makeovers and our families.
• Demonstrate resilience, adaptability and the ability to balance a fast-paced workload with clear forward planning and an eye for detail.

You will have:

• A passion for helping others.
• A desire and commitment to build and deliver the very best results for our beneficiaries.
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Effectively prioritise and work calmly under pressure
• A good understanding of budgets and competent Microsoft Office user
• A full UK driving license, able to drive a van.

For the full role details please see enclosed advert and Job description documents and contact details for an infomal chat about the role - We will be reviewing applications as they come in for this role and may close it early should we receive sufficient applications.

Do you have the commitment and values to make a real difference to the lives of people with care needs? Are you passionate about empowering them to improve their quality of life, promoting health and wellbeing and supporting them to realise their hopes, dreams and aspirations?

Creative Support is a not-for-profit organisation which provides high-quality, person-centred support to people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health needs and dementia. The support we offer is tailored to the individual, and promotes their independence and community engagement.

We are seeking a warm, compassionate and proactive Extra Care Registered Manager to provide person-centered care and support to our services users. The service based in vibrant, multi-generational Cecil Gardens which supports service users to be independent and foster connections with the community. Being the CQC Registered Manager, you will be responsible for the operational management of Cecil Gardens along with a wider senior team.

Cecil Gardens rated Good in ALL domains in 2026. We are on the journey to being an outstanding extra care service, and are looking for an ambitious, committed registered manager who is ready to help us and those we support reach our goals.

Working in collaboration with the landlord, stakeholders and local health and social care services, you will ensure that the highest standards of care and support are provided. You will ensure that theservice empowers clients and meets their needs and preferences. You will work in conjunction with service users’ families and friends to promote a positive atmosphere within the service. The ability to work in an empathetic and holistic way in order to maintain orientation and independence is essential. You must be flexible, energetic and reliable. You will be responsible for managing a team of care staff at Cecil Gardens.

You must be willing to embrace all aspects of the role including, but not limited to, providing support with dignified personal care and domestic tasks, and supporting individuals to access employment, education, and social opportunities. We value the personal skills and interests you will bring to both the role and to the lives of the people we support. You must be willing to work occasional shifts including mornings, evenings and weekends.

Previous experience in services for people with a range of support needs is essential. Your approach will be warm, person centered and respectful. Creative Support is committed to your continuous professional development and you will have the opportunity to explore your training and development needs.

Vacancy Reference Number: 84485

Applications for this role must be submitted via the Creative Support website using the above vacancy reference number.

Benefits of working with Creative Support include a probationary bonus, pension contributions, 28 days Leave and company paid enhanced DBS.

We are a passionate, inclusive, and anti-racist organization - Stonewall Diversity Champion, Disability Confident Employer who have recently received Investors in People Gold award.

We can only accept applications from candidates who are located in and eligible to work within the UK

Are you looking for an opportunity to start your career supporting vulnerable adults? 

We have multiple opportunities for Duty Workers to join two of our fantastic services. You can develop valuable skills and experience while playing a key role in providing support to St Mungo’s clients.

Where will you be working? 

• Adamson Road (NW3) - Adamson Road is a 24-hour supported living service that provides a safe and supportive environment for 21 single homeless adults aged 25 and over with mental health support needs. Our aim is to empower residents to develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to successfully sustain their tenancy and thrive within the community. 
   
• Court Gardens / BarnSbury Road (NW7) - Court Gardens and Barnsbury Road are high-needs supported accommodation services commissioned by Islington Council. Court Gardens provides accommodation and support for up to 12 adult men, while Barnsbury Road supports up to 21 adults in mixed-gender accommodation. The primary support need across both services is mental health, although many clients also experience additional challenges, including substance misuse and physical health conditions. Both services operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing round-the-clock support to promote wellbeing, support recovery, and help clients develop the skills required to live independently.

A role as a Duty Worker is a great opportunity to develop your skills in supporting service users with multiple or complex needs including in substance use and mental health. Our aim is to support people who have recently been sleeping rough, or who may be experiencing long term homelessness and work with them to develop the skills, networks and confidence to live independently in the community. 

In these roles you will jointly manage the safe day to day running of the project with other members of the team and provide basic support and advice to clients.

Applicants will be considered for all roles as part of the recruitment process, but may state preference in a particular service if invited to interview.

About you 

These are fantastic roles for people looking to develop a career in the sector; a number of current Managers started their career as Duty Workers. In addition you will have: 

• Some experience of dealing directly with the public and/or clients or customers in a busy service environment and good communication skills.

• Personal experience of homelessness and/or an understanding of; and empathy with the issues faced by homeless or vulnerably housed people. 

• A genuine interest in helping vulnerable people to make positive changes in their life, and the willingness to develop these valuable skills. 

St Mungo's are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all under-represented groups. 

How to apply

To view the job description and guidance on completing your application form, please click on the ‘document’ tab on the advert page on our website.

When you're ready to apply click the ‘Apply Now’ Button to start your online application form.

Closing date: 10am on 21st Aug 2026

Interview and assessments on: 2nd Sept 2026 

Please note - We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Early application is advised.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Job title: Farm Skills and Wellbeing Lead. Based at Oasis City Farm – Southampton, Green Lane, Southampton SO16 9FQ

Hours: 32 hours per week Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £22,470 per annum, 0.8FTE (£28,088 for 1FTE)

 Oasis City Farm - Southampton is a community focused registered charity. We provide a range of supportive, wellbeing boosting, and nature-based activities for our communities, which include young people and adult learners with disabilities.

We have an exciting opportunity to become a member of our farm leadership team as a Skills and Wellbeing Lead. You will lead the Skills and Wellbeing Programme at Oasis City Farm – Southampton, delivering high-quality sessions, therapeutic activities and workshops for adults and young people. With the aim of building knowledge, practical skills, confidence and wellbeing through animal care, gardening and nature-based learning. This will include leading our Adult day service; developing opportunities for farm users to gain qualifications; facilitating wellbeing workshops and provision that build mental health wellbeing; working with the community lead to develop our volunteer and work placement programme; work alongside our garden assistant to lead on our garden project development, ensuring it is sustainable. This role includes line managing a team to enable the above strands of work to be sustainable and impactful for the wider community.

The role will contribute to the day-to-day operation of the farm, supporting animal care and site maintenance through these programmes and community activities in line with the Oasis ethos.

The successful applicant will need to demonstrate:

· Relevant qualifications or experience in animal management or outdoor learning.

· Relevant qualifications or experience in youth work, community-based projects or working with adults.

· The flexibility to work the days as advertised including school holidays. There may be occasional evenings but time of lieu would be given.

· Excellent verbal communication skills.

· IT literate

· Proven ability to work alongside others in projects that work with the public.

· Punctuality, reliability, and honesty.

· Ability to always evidence the Oasis ethos and values.

This is a unique opportunity for a friendly, hardworking and driven individual, who is looking to make a difference in a growing and community focused field of work. In return we offer:

· Flexible working practices which encourage innovation and fresh ideas.

· A supportive network and friendly team in a motivating working environment.

If you are interested, please send your CV and Supporting Statement.  In your supporting statement please address these questions:

1. Expand on your CV to explain how your skills and experience meets the Job Description.  Give specific examples.

2. What personal attributes does a person need to do well in this role? 

3. How do you see the Oasis ethos and 9 Habits being displayed in this role?

Applications will be looked at on a rolling basis with an invite to interview and a trial session in September.  We reserve the right to close the advert if we identify suitable candidates. To avoid disappointment, please submit your application as soon as possible.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers, please let us know. 

Applicants must be able to prove their right to work in the UK. Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

Build a resident-led network of community support on the Bourne and Tybalds Estates (in Holborn & Covent Garden ward).  The project focuses on estates experiencing high levels of deprivation and inequality, supporting residents to develop skills, confidence and ownership so they can shape, deliver and sustain community-led activities, events and campaigns.  Getting involved now offers the chance to shape the project itself and work with people to create a truly empowering, enriching project making a difference to people’s lives. 

We are seeking someone who:

• Can engage with the community in an open, accessible and inclusive way to understand their needs
• Has experience involving volunteers in ongoing, active participation in their community
• Is confident organising themselves and others

Are you looking for a fulfilling role where you can make a real difference? 

We have an exciting opportunity at our London Battersea centre to support the day-to-day operations of our client services team.

Thrive is a national charity that uses gardening to change lives. We’re looking for a

Client Services Coordinator (Client Gardeners) who will provide office and operational

support to our delivery team.

Working as a key part of the team at Thrive in London, the Client Services Coordinator

will provide administrative support  and be responsible for the client gardener referral

functions at the centre. The successful candidate will have administrative and

organisational skills and up to date IT knowledge.

Appointment to this post will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring

Service check. Thrive complies fully with the DBS Code of Practice. Having a criminal

record will not necessarily prevent an individual from working for Thrive.

conversation about the role, please email recruitment in

JJob title: Farm Education Assistant
(Based at Oasis City Farm – Southampton, Green Lane, Southampton SO16 9FQ)
Hours: 40 hours per week Mon - Fri
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £26,542 per annum

Oasis City Farm - Southampton is a community focused registered charity. We provide a range of supportive, wellbeing boosting, and nature-based activities for our communities, which include young people and adult learners with disabilities.

We have an exciting opportunity to become a full-time member of our farm team as an Education Assistant.

You will deliver engaging, educational and wellbeing-boosting activities for children and young people at Oasis City Farm – Southampton. These will be individual and group-based sessions, using animals, nature, gardening and practical farm activities to support learning, confidence, emotional wellbeing, social development and life skills.

You will be responsible for the safety, welfare and engagement of the children and young people participating in sessions, ensuring all activities are inclusive, accessible and delivered to a high standard and complete admin, monitoring, evaluation and feedback associated with your sessions.

The role will contribute to the day-to-day operation of the farm, supporting animal care and site maintenance through educational and therapeutic sessions and community activities in line with the Oasis ethos.

The successful applicant will need to demonstrate:

· Relevant qualifications or experience in animal management or outdoor learning.

· Relevant qualifications or experience in youth work, teaching, or community-based projects.

· The flexibility to work across the week, including school holidays. This may include occasional evenings and weekends but time off in lieu would be given if this was necessary.

· Excellent verbal communication skills.

· IT literate and able to complete

· Proven ability to work alongside others in projects that work with the public.

· Punctuality, reliability, and honesty.

· Ability to always evidence the Oasis ethos and values.

This is a unique opportunity for a friendly, hardworking and driven individual, who is looking to make a difference in a growing and community focused field of work. In return we offer:

· Flexible working practices which encourage innovation and fresh ideas.

· A supportive network and friendly team in a motivating working environment.

If you are interested, please send your CV and Supporting Statement.  In your supporting statement please address these questions:

1. Expand on your CV to explain how your skills and experience meets the Job Description.  Give specific examples.

2. What personal attributes does a person need to do well in this role? 

3. How do you see the Oasis ethos and 9 Habits being displayed in this role?

Applications will be looked at on a rolling basis with an invite to interview and a trial session. We reserve the right to close the advert if we identify suitable candidates. To avoid disappointment, please submit your application as soon as possible.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers, please let us know. 

Applicants must be able to prove their right to work in the UK. Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

About the role

We are looking for a pro-active and committed Support Worker (known internally as Project Worker) to join our team at Endsleigh Gardens in Euston. Endsleigh Gardens provides accommodation to people who are experiencing homelessness, including those with complex support needs such as alcohol misuse, substance misuse and mental health. 

What you'll be doing

In the role of Project Worker, you will support clients on their journey toward increased independence. You will manage a caseload of residents, helping them develop the skills and confidence required to move on to appropriate longer‑term or independent accommodation. The role focuses on empowering residents to build on their strengths, develop practical life skills, and maintain independence in the community.

About You 

Above all, you will have a genuine desire to support people to transform their lives. If you have a good understanding of the complex issues faced by homeless people; personal experience of homelessness yourself and some experience of supporting vulnerable people through a process of change, we encourage you to apply.  

You'll also need good interpersonal and listening skills; patience and resilience. We will provide you with the knowledge and training you need to work with clients in a holistic and person-centred way. 

Why join us? 

• Support clients to achieve personal goals and independence 

• Deliver practical, person-centred support 

• Be part of a committed, inclusive team 

• Receive full training and development opportunities 

St Mungo's are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all under-represented groups.

How to apply

Applicants will be considered for all vacancies that are a suitable match with their skills and experience. However, if you do have a specific preference for location, please state this on your supporting statement. 

To view the job description and guidance on completing your application form, please click on the ‘document’ tab on the advert page on our website.

To find out more and apply please go to the St Mungo’s careers page on our website.

Closing date: 10 am on 12th August 2026

Interview and assessments on: 25th & 25th August 2026

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have right to work in the UK for the duration of employment. 

Successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their right to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. 

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Royal Ballet School is a global centre for performance excellence. Its dual mission is to nurture the best ballet dancers for the main stages of the world and assure the future of classical dance art form. With 90% of our students relying on financial support to attend, philanthropy is fundamental to ensuring the School remains accessible to exceptional talent, regardless of financial circumstances. Through exceptional stewardship of existing supporters and the successful cultivation of new funding partnerships, this role will play a vital part in securing the School's future and enabling the next generation of outstanding dancers to realise their potential. 

SUMMARY OF THE ROLE

As an integral member of the Development Team, the Development Manager will support the growth of our trust and foundation partnerships to fund a number of our core annual programme areas (Student Bursaries, Healthcare, Facilities etc) as well as new projects. The Manager will also lead on research and funding applications to trusts and foundations, while also delivering quality impact reporting across the School’s work.

CONTRACT TERMS

Duration: Fixed-term maternity cover (approximately 12 months) from October 2026

Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday - Friday, with flexible hybrid working

Location: Upper School, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DA, with the option to discuss remote work

Salary: £45,000 per annum

Application closing date: 14 August 2026. Applications will be screened on submission. The School reserves the right to interview and appoint if a suitable candidate is found before the closing date.

MAIN DUTIES

SUPPORTING EXISTING DONOR RELATIONSHIPS

• Maximise income from existing trust and foundation funders by building and maintaining strong relationships, ensuring agreed donor retention and income targets are achieved across designated projects and programme areas
• Steward trust, foundation and corporate funders already or capable of contributing over £100,000 per year by producing high-quality, timely and compelling reports, funding proposals and thank-you communications
• Collaborate with the Development Team to deliver effective donor stewardship through events, communications and year-round engagement activities that strengthen relationships with funders and other key stakeholders.

DEVELOPING NEW DONOR RELATIONSHIPS

• Support members of the Development Team and Centenary working committee, to identify, engage and deliver excellent income and impact for the School
• Work with the Head of Development to research, write and present attractive and compelling fundraising applications and proposals to trusts and companies for core programmes
• Engage key prospect targets through effective and appropriate verbal and written communication. This may range from sharing curated content and short case-studies to producing in-depth project proposals that include detailed financial data and research findings.
• Lead on the creation of Impact data, end of year reporting for core programme outputs and outcomes (showcasing Healthcare, Academic and Artistic performance and more), while ensuring links back to the case for support and the School’s strategic objectives as originally stated. 

WORKING ACROSS INTERNAL DEPARTMENTS AND TEAMS

• Contribute to forecasting and regular reporting, internal planning and budget setting and producing verbal and written reports for senior management as required
• Liaise with relevant departments across the School to gather information for applications and reporting
• Produce and submit quality funding reports to meet deadlines, liaising with relevant teams to ensure funder requirements are met and the evidence base for funding is strengthened. Keep accurate and timely records of approaches, grant opportunities and funds received on our CRM.
• Play an active role within the fundraising team and contribute to the development and creation of strategies and campaigns to increase fundraising through all channels
• To maintain up-to-date knowledge of fundraising regulations, networks, and developments across the sector, advising on best practice in relation to Trusts fundraising.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent professional experience
• Proven experience securing and managing multi-year grants from trusts and foundations, including raising at least £50,000 annually from grant funders
• Demonstrable success in building and maintaining long-term relationships with trusts, foundations, funders and donors
• Experience researching prospective funders and developing compelling funding applications, reports, updates and other fundraising communications
• Proficient in using fundraising databases, such as Salesforce, to maintain accurate records and support donor management
• Ability to analyse and communicate complex information, data and organisational impact in a clear, persuasive and engaging way
• Strong understanding of fundraising best practice, current sector trends and impact measurement and evaluation
• Excellent IT, data management and administrative skills, with experience handling financial and confidential information
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet tight deadlines and maintain exceptional attention to detail
• Proactive, self-motivated and adaptable, with the ability to respond effectively to changing priorities and opportunities
• Positive and collaborative team player with excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience of supporting or managing significant fundraising appeals or projects
• Working knowledge of the Adobe Creative Cloud Acrobat, InDesign and Photoshop
• Familiarity with performing arts, education, culture sectors. 

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM AT THE ROYAL BALLET SCHOOL?

• Unique cause with demonstrable impact and global standing as a centre of excellence for student and teacher training
• We are an ambitious and supportive team with opportunities for learning and development
• While most of the team work from our Covent Garden office three days a week, we're open to discussing flexible working arrangements, including remote working, with the right candidate
• Excellent engagement with existing donors with established prospect pipeline
• Close working relationships across the organisation and with collaborative stakeholders
• Generous employee benefits and invitations to watch performances. 

SAFEGUARDING DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and recognises that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. The School expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment to children’s safeguarding and to share this child-centred approach. This approach means that staff must consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child. Additionally, the following is expected of all staff:

• To uphold the School’s policies relating to safeguarding and child protection, behaviour, health and safety and all other relevant policies
• To promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young persons for whom you are responsible and come into contact with
• To report any safeguarding concerns using the relevant channels, such as informing the Designated Safeguarding Lead, in a timely and appropriate manner
• To ensure full compliance with all statutory regulations, particularly the most recent Keeping Children Safe in Education, and to communicate concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, other relevant staff of The Royal Ballet School or local children’s services as appropriate.

This job information cannot be all encompassing. It is inevitable over time that the emphasis of the job will change without changing the general character of the job or the level of duties and responsibilities entailed. Consequently, this information will be periodically reviewed, revised and updated in consultation with the post holder to reflect appropriate changes.

We are committed to creating an environment where all our employees feel part of our team and can flourish, regardless of their background. We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity.

General requirements

• To understand fully, and have a commitment to, carrying out the aims and objectives of Mudlarks.
• To work within the Mudlarks’ policies and procedures to provide a high quality of service and in particular to always have a high regard for the organisation’s Equal Opportunities Policy.
• To act in accordance with the General Data Projection Regulation (2018).
• To act in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and the organisation’s Health and safety policy statement.

Specific duties and tasks

• To support and train the service users involved in Mudlarks activities, including people with learning disabilities, students on work experience, people with mental health concerns and other volunteers. This requires supporting people who may exhibit some challenging behaviour, in all weather conditions year-round.
• To support service users to learn new skills required for on-site projects.
• To organise site activities and prepare and prioritise tasks.
• To be responsible for the tidiness of the site.
• To assist the site manager and the rest of the team in the everyday running and development of Mudlarks.
• To provide personal care support to service users when required, such as toileting and hygiene.

Additional requirements

• To take part and assist with the planning of projects on site and in the community.
• Provide information for reports and review meetings.
• To keep up-to-date with changes in policies/laws/regulations/practices and implement them in the Mudlarks ethos in all aspects of Mudlarks.
• To safeguard the long-term future of the charity.
• You may be required to carry out other duties, as within your capabilities and level of responsibility, in order to meet the needs of the organisation. This includes a range of annual events throughout the year in which you will receive TOIL that will be used during the winter months when our site closes early.

Person specification

Education and training

Essential

• A good level of communication skills.
• Experience of working with people with learning difficulties and/or working in the care sector.

Desirable

• Training and/or qualifications in care.
• An interest in and/or experience of one or more of the activities undertaken at Mudlarks

Skills and abilities

Essential

• Ability to think logically and creatively to provide practical solutions to a changing range of problems and issues.
• Ability to respond effectively to challenging behaviour.
• Ability to work positively both as a member of a team and independently, with general direction and within a clear framework of accountability.
• Self-motivated and able to use own initiative.
• Willingness to be flexible.
• Prepared and able to work outdoors in all weather.

Desirable

• Good written communication skills.
• Good IT skills.

DBS Clearance

Please note that as this post will involve working with children and vulnerable adults, your appointment is subject to you receiving satisfactory DBS clearance.