The Arboretum Trust

Kew at Castle Howard

VOLUNTEERS

Why get involved?
Volunteering is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people and work in some beautiful surroundings. Whether you are looking for some work experience to put on your CV or just looking to get out of the office and have some fun and exercise, The Arboretum Trust has a variety of volunteer opportunities for people with all sorts of skills.

Some of our volunteer roles...

Tree-carers Team: We plant many new trees every year and in order to give these young plants the very best start in life, we have established a team of people who help us to do just that. We aim to check new plantings every two weeks during the first year to ensure that there are no problems with weeds, watering or damage from pests. Again we offer full training and support and have regular team meetings throughout the year.

Horticultural assistants: Both Ray Wood and the Arboretum require people to maintain the plant displays for the visiting public. The work will be varied over the different seasons, from weeding, pruning and mulching to tree planting and propagation. Again we are able to offer tuition and training in all aspects of the role and welcome people with or without prior experience, or who have a particular interest in horticulture.

Education assistants: The Arboretum provides a wide range of curriculum linked activities for schools and community groups of all ages. Our Outreach Programme manager welcomes volunteers who wish to help us educate and inspire our visitors, as well as people who can help with admin support.

Grounds maintenance: With the main arboretum covering just over 150 acres, we are always looking for people to help us with cutting grass. We have a range of machinery to do this and full training will be given on each specific machine to enable you to help us maintain the arboretum to high standards.

Visitor welcome guides: We rely on volunteers to help us run the reception desk, welcome visitors and Arboretum members and run the small retail outlet in the visitor centre. We particularly need help on weekends and bank holidays, but appreciate support at all times. If you enjoy meeting people and can offer excellent customer service, then we would love to hear from you.

Office roles: we frequently need people to help out in the office, from helping with a mail shot to compiling a database of places to send our advertising to for potential group visits. If you have basic IT skills and an interest in marketing, advertising or administration, please get in touch to enquire about roles in our friendly office team.

Additional one-off opportunities also exist including habitat creation days and extra help during our ‘Wild about Wood’ weekend festival in September.

If you would like to find out more call us for a chat on 01653 648650, or just fill out the form send it to:
The Arboretum Trust
Kew at Castle Howard
The Estate Office
Castle Howard
York
YO60 7DA