Learning has long been at the heart of the work of Great Dixter. As one of the most dynamic and complex flower gardens in the world, we have a responsibility to pass on the skills needed to garden this way. For some years we have offered practical education for people who will become top level gardeners. This education, through scholarships and student placements for trainee gardeners is tailored to the individual and will vary depending on the person involved. This flexible way of teaching ensures that Dixter trainees go away with a deep level of understanding and the skill base needed to manage intricate flower gardens. Our students come from all around the world.

Adult education courses at Great Dixter include Study Days, week-long Symposia, courses, lectures and workshops. Run by Head Gardener Fergus Garrett, as well as other Dixter staff and friends with an intimate knowledge of the garden, they will help people understand the ethos, methods and plants that are used at Great Dixter.

The Heritage Lottery project in 2010 enabled the educational work of Great Dixter to be broadened, through the addition of new facilities and the appointment of Education Officer Catherine, who manages and develops most of Great Dixter’s education programmes, particularly those with younger audiences. A number of grants have been secured over the year to support this work, including from the Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust, The Ernest Cook Trust and The Heritage Conservation Trust. 

Grants from the Monument Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund enabled us to convert old Farm buildings into the Education space at Dixter Farm and funded resources to work with, excite and enthuse younger people through our work with schools and families. Our programmes draw from the garden, our rich biodiversity and wildlife, traditional woodland crafts and our history and collections.