Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer

Youth Options delivers targeted outdoor youth work and alternative provision programmes for children and young people who are at risk of disengagement from education, school exclusion, or social exclusion. Our Outdoor Learning Centres provide safe, welcoming outdoor environments that support learning, wellbeing and personal development.

As a Gardening and/or Site Maintenance Volunteer, you will support the care, upkeep and development of our Outdoor Learning Centre in Totton (based at Hounsdown School). Your practical work will help ensure outdoor spaces are safe, well-maintained and inviting for children, young people, staff and visitors.

This role focuses on hands-on gardening and site maintenance tasks and may involve working independently or alongside staff and other volunteers.

Your contribution will directly support the delivery of outdoor learning, alternative provision and youth work activities by maintaining functional and inspiring outdoor spaces.

For those looking for a more structured and supervised volunteering we have a club on a Tuesday 10am – 2pm. 

This role is suitable for both experienced gardeners and those new to gardening tasks and projects will be tailored to your interests, confidence and skill level. We can offer opportunities to people with a wide range of experiences from the very highly skilled to novices.

Skills

Experience:

• Previous experience in gardening, site maintenance or practical outdoor work (desirable but not essential)
• Experience volunteering or working in outdoor, school, community or youth settings is beneficial
• Ability to carry out practical tasks independently or with guidance

Knowledge:

• Basic understanding of gardening and/or site maintenance activities
• Awareness of health and safety considerations when working outdoors and using tools
• Understanding of the importance of maintaining safe and welcoming environments for children and young people

Essential Skills & Competencies:

• Practical, hands-on approach to gardening and/or maintenance tasks
• Willingness to follow instructions and health and safety guidance
• Physically able to carry out outdoor tasks (with reasonable adjustments where needed)
• Positive attitude, with respect for children, young people, staff and the learning environment