Judge for Rushmoor Community in Bloom

For Rushmoor Voluntary Services

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

What skills do I need?

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

Interests

Civic Responsibility and Communities
Environment and Conservation
Wildlife and Animals

Activities

Administration and Office
Gardening
Local Events
One-off Activity
Supporting Charities

Details

Age restrictions
18+
Current Driving Licence
However we ask that you are able to travel to judging locations within Rushmoor
DBS check needed
Equal Opportunities Policy
Expenses reimbursed
Health and Safety Policy
Ongoing support
Recruitment Process
Suitable for under 16s
Suitable for under 18s
Training provided
Volunteer induction
Volunteer Policy
Volunteers covered by insurance
Written role description

When can I volunteer?

Start Date: 01/05/2026

End Date: 30/09/2026

Slot	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
Morning	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Afternoon	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Evening	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Availability Details

RCiB is a competition that takes place across the year, with judging taking place for two weeks in June/July (specific dates to be confirmed at the end of January). You will attend a briefing session before judging starts. You will also be expected to attend meetings after judging to ensure accuracy and provide feedback. The competition ends with an Awards Evening in September, which you are invited to attend.