Community Gardener

|D’Eynsford Estate, Southwark

Contract: April 2026 – March 2027

Location: D’Eynsford Estate, London SE5

Salary: Negotiable 

Hours: Approx. 5 hours per week

Closing date: Thursday 22 January 2026

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Job Description

About the Opportunity

D’Eynsford Tenant Management Organisation (TMO) is seeking an experienced and community-focused Community Gardener to support the care, development and activation of its much-loved green spaces, including the Secret Garden and wider estate grounds.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about community gardening, biodiversity, and resident engagement, who enjoys working hands-on in green spaces while supporting people of all ages to grow, learn and connect with nature  .

About the Site

The Secret Garden was created by residents over 15 years ago and has since become a vibrant community hub. It includes:

• Woodland and wildflower areas
• Herb garden and raised vegetable beds
• Greenhouse and shed
• Composting area
• Social seating spaces
• Water taps, electric point and water-butt irrigation

Alongside this, the wider estate grounds are continually improved through planting schemes, container gardens and resident-led maintenance, with a strong emphasis on organic gardening, native plants and wildlife-friendly practices  .

Role Overview

The Community Gardener will work closely with the Garden & Grounds Committee and TMO Manager to plan and deliver weekly gardening and outreach sessions, combining practical horticulture with inclusive community engagement.

Sessions will typically include:

• Weekday session (approx. 2 hours)
• Weekend session (approx. 3 hours)

Exact scheduling will be agreed with the successful applicant.

Key Responsibilities

• Open and steward the Secret Garden for residents and visitors
• Plan and lead weekly gardening and community activities
• Create a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment for all
• Support residents to build confidence and basic gardening skills
• Deliver seasonal workshops and events (e.g. seed swaps, wreath making)
• Maintain the garden and estate green spaces to a high standard
• Promote activities via noticeboards, newsletters, WhatsApp and social media
• Provide horticultural advice to the Committee and TMO Manager
• Source plants, tools and materials in coordination with the TMO
• Maintain attendance and activity monitoring records
• Attend Garden Committee meetings and liaise regularly with key stakeholders

Who We’re Looking For

Applicants must have:

• Demonstrable gardening or horticultural experience
• Experience working with community groups
• Public liability insurance
• An enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one)

This role would suit a freelance community gardener, small social enterprise, or experienced practitioner with strong people skills and a passion for green spaces.

Contract & Timeline

• Contract period: 6 April 2026 – 31 March 2027
• Interviews: 9–14 February 2026
• Start date: Week commencing 6 April 2026

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Your contact details
• Your hourly rate (based on 5 hours per week for 12 months)
• A supporting statement (max 500 words) covering:
  
  • Relevant gardening and community experience
  • Approach to resident engagement
  • Safeguarding, insurance, health & safety practices
  • Any additional information supporting your application

📧 Email applications to:

chay.pulger@southwark.gov.uk

For informal enquiries or to arrange a site visit, contact:

Chay Pulger

📞 020 7525 0745