The trust provides a charitable grant towards the study and practice of horticulture within the gardens department. Up to four trainees are awarded a place each year and are paid a salary and given accommodation.
Trust head of gardens Stephen McCallum said: "There is a general misconception that anyone can buy a few tools and trade as a gardener, which is far from the truth.
"A successful career as a professional gardener takes years of training and requires the development of a sound understanding of the science and art of horticulture, as well as a broad range of practised gardening skills.
"We introduced training and assessment towards SVQ Horticulture levels 1, 2 and 3 and are delighted that we are now able to offer the same towards RHS qualifications in practical gardening levels 1 and 2," McCallum added.
"Studies towards the RHS principles of horticulture can be undertaken as distance learning and all of these certificates are well recognised. Together with a year of practical experience, our trainees are well equipped to progress in their chosen direction".
For further details, email douneside@ifb.co.uk.
