Judge for Rushmoor Community in Bloom

Rushmoor Community in Bloom is an annual competition that celebrates the creativity, care, and environmental efforts of residents, schools, and local organisations in Rushmoor. It encourages gardening, wildlife-friendly spaces, and community pride across the borough. 

Volunteer Judges play a key role in delivering the Rushmoor Community in Bloom competition, run by Rushmoor Voluntary Services. As a Judge, you will visit competition entries from residents, schools, and community groups across Rushmoor. Entries may include front and back gardens, allotments, community spaces, and school gardens. You will work alongside another volunteer judge and follow a set of simple judging criteria and guidance, which will be provided in advance.

The judging visits which will take place during a two-week period from Monday 29th June – Friday 10th July. Prior to this, you will be invited to two meetings to train and prepare for the role as well as liaising with other judges on the judging schedule. 

This role suits people who enjoy gardening, being outdoors, and supporting community initiatives. It is a rewarding way to contribute to a well-established local competition and help celebrate the achievements of individuals, schools, and community groups across Rushmoor.

Typical tasks include:

• Attending a short training session before judging begins
• Reviewing the judging guidelines and scoring criteria
• Visiting assigned gardens and green spaces during the judging period
• Assessing entries fairly and consistently against the agreed criteria
• Recording scores and brief comments on provided forms
• Taking photos of the entries and sharing them with the planning team
• Treating entrants respectfully and representing the competition positively
• Providing feedback where appropriate
• Attending some meetings with other judges before and after judging
• Celebrating with us at the Awards Event in September

Skills

• An interest in gardening, green spaces, or environmental causes
• A positive and supportive attitude towards community projects and participants
• Good observation skills and attention to detail
• Ability to record scores and brief written comments clearly
• Willingness to follow guidance, training, and agreed judging standards
• Ability to work collaboratively with another volunteer judge
• Good communication skills and a friendly, respectful manner
• Reliability and commitment during the two-week judging period
• Ability to travel to judging locations within Rushmoor

Desirable (but not essential):

• Previous gardening, horticultural, or judging experience
• Experience of volunteering or community events
• Knowledge of sustainable gardening or environmental practices