Wakehurst Learning Resources Volunteer

At Kew, we recognise that diversity enriches the work we do and welcome volunteer applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Our aim is to provide equal opportunities to all volunteers, ensuring they are treated fairly, without bias or prejudice, while fostering an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully. 

Background to the Learning Programme: 

The Wakehurst Learning Programme welcomes over 10,000 pupils a year for educational visits. We facilitate learning for all key stages, from EYFS to Sixth form, and on occasion, universities and adult learners. Our aim is to inspire young people to have a passion for plants, fungi and the natural world through a diverse range of outdoor learning activities and nature connection.  

The programme runs all year round with peak periods between March and July, and September to October. 

Overall purpose of the role 

• Help with the practical organisation of school visits to the gardens 
• Assist the senior teacher with resource management for the Learning Programme 
• Set up resources needed for educational workshops 
• Take stock of resources, report any missing or damaged items 
• Replenish resources 

At Kew, we recognise that diversity enriches the work we do and welcome volunteer applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Our aim is to provide equal opportunities to all volunteers, ensuring they are treated fairly, without bias or prejudice, while fostering an environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully.

Background to the Learning Programme:

The Wakehurst Learning Programme welcomes over 10,000 pupils a year for educational visits. We facilitate learning for all key stages, from EYFS to Sixth form, and on occasion, universities and adult learners. Our aim is to inspire young people to have a passion for plants, fungi and the natural world through a diverse range of outdoor learning activities and nature connection.

The programme runs all year round with peak periods between March and July, and September to October.

Overall purpose of the role

• Help with the practical organisation of school visits to the gardens
• Assist the senior teacher with resource management for the Learning Programme
• Set up resources needed for educational workshops
• Take stock of resources, report any missing or damaged items
• Replenish resources

Wakehurst Learning Resources Volunteer

More details

Main tasks

• Setting up the classroom or outdoor learning space for workshops taking place the next day
• Moving resources around the site by trolley
• Propagating seeds as learning resources
• Performing pond pre-dips
• Preparing flowers for lab workshops by stripping leaves, cutting the ends and putting in water
• Watering & tending to the plants used for workshops

What to expect from us:

• A full induction with ongoing support
• To be allocated clear roles and responsibilities
• To be treated fairly and with respect
• A friendly and dedicated team
• An opportunity to learn about the living collections at Kew
• Travel expenses up to a set value

What we expect from you:

• To commit to volunteer at least one day a week other than periods of holiday etc.
• To attend required training for the role
• To be reliable and punctual
• To learn about the work of Kew & Wakehurst
• To wear the Kew/Wakehurst volunteer uniform if required for the role
• To demonstrate Kew’s values and follow Kew policies and procedures

This role will suit volunteers with the following skills and experience:

• Background in education or events
• Comfortable lifting and carrying resources
• Confident working alone if needed
• Looking for a consistent volunteer commitment
• Experience of contributing to a team
• Flexible and willing to give support where necessary

Recruitment procedure:

Volunteer recruitment at Kew happens at different times of the year as and when placement become available. Volunteer applications will be assessed individually. Wherever possible we will match the skills, experience and preferences of the volunteer with the requirements of the role. If the application is successful, we will invite you in for an informal recruitment meeting where you will have the opportunity to meet the team and learn more about the role. If it is a good fit for both you and the organisation we will induct you as a volunteer and provide you with the necessary training.

Application closing date: 22 March 2026 

Recruitment meeting: 26 March 2026

For further information please contact:

Emma Hood -  wlpvolunteers@kew.org 

01444 894055