Share Your Knowledge. Grow Something Bigger Than Your Own Garden.
Your permaculture design expertise belongs in the ground, not just the classroom or the report. RunRig Garden connects trained permaculture designers, RHS horticulturalists, and experienced forest gardeners with the projects and the people who need them.
Who Is the Expert Mentor Role For?
The Team E role is designed for people who already have substantial knowledge and want to put it into practice on real, long-term projects.
You Are a Good Fit If You Have:
- Completed a permaculture design course or hold a PDC
- RHS Level 3 or above qualification
- Practical experience establishing food forests or forest gardens
- Background in ecological landscaping or regenerative agriculture
- A genuine interest in teaching and mentoring alongside designing
What the Role Involves:
- Site visit and assessment of the matched garden
- Producing a food forest design specific to the site
- Seasonal check-ins and guidance for the grower
- Advising on plant selection, establishment, and maintenance
- Supporting the land owner with expectations and harvest planning
What You Gain by Contributing to RunRig Garden
Your Designs Get Built
Permaculture designs are often theoretical. RunRig gives you projects where the plan actually gets planted and grows.
Recognition and Portfolio
Build a documented portfolio of completed food forest projects. Your profile on the RunRig platform showcases your work.
Community of Practice
Connect with other permaculture practitioners working on RunRig projects across the UK.
Compensation
Mentor compensation structure to be confirmed. Register your interest and we will be in touch with details.
FAQ section
Is the mentor role paid or voluntary?
Compensation details are confirmed at the point of matching and depend on project scope. Register your interest and we will discuss specifics before you commit to anything.
How much time does the mentor role require?
The site visit and initial design typically take four to eight hours. Seasonal check-ins are usually one to two hours. Total time commitment varies by project but averages six to twelve hours per season.
Can I work on more than one RunRig project at a time?
Yes, subject to your own availability. Some mentors work on one project at a time; others manage two or three simultaneously. We match based on what you tell us about your capacity.
Can I mentor remotely?
The initial site visit is best done in person. Subsequent seasonal guidance can be delivered remotely via the platform in many cases. Discuss your preferences when applying.
What happens if a project I am mentoring is not progressing as planned?
RunRig provides support for all active projects. If a grower or land owner is not fulfilling their commitment, we work with the team to find a resolution. Mentors are not left to manage team dynamics alone.
"My permaculture design skills were mostly going into paid reports nobody implemented. Through RunRig I am actually watching designs I created come to life, season after season."
Priya, Permaculture Mentor, London