Menu
The Internship program has been suspended, due in part to the pandemic. We are keen to get it activated as soon as is practicable.
On top of that, they will also undertake regular projects which may include but are not limited to the following:
It is advisable to apply as early as possible. An early decision is important for participants to get organised especially overseas applicants. Applications will close as soon as the number of acceptable applicants reaches 5 (five).
A prerequisite for the internship is that you must have completed a Permaculture Design Course (PDC). This may be done at Purple Pear Farm or elsewhere. Preference will be given to people doing their PDC at Purple Pear Farm
Essential Requirements
Applicants will have a strong work ethic, a fit and able body and mind, excellent communication skills and the ability to work with a task based approach (as opposed to a time based system). The manual work is often repetitive and strenuous. This is farming!
The town of Maitland is about 1 1/2 km away, with shops and facilities such as libraries and medical. Newcastle and the beaches are around 30 minutes by train or car.
Purple Pear Farm accepts a maximum of five interns per season, couples are welcome.
We work in all weather, please come prepared.
Expectations
We expect all of our interns to be hard working, willing, well presented, polite and humble. We expect that there will be no illegal drugs on site and that interns be not under the influence of drugs or alcohol whilst at the farm. Alcohol in moderation is acceptable.
How much you get out of this experience depends on how much you are prepared to put in. We hope, a lot! We aspire to share our knowledge and experience with those who are looking for a deeper understand of intensive, sustainable small scale farming and the crop planning, rotation and customer communication involved in running a CSA.
Ask lots of questions…every day!!
We need to get to know you and talk about expectations, and plans for the future. This is to ensure that we can all work together and that we can provide the experience you are looking for. We want interns to leave the farm with solid, specific skills for successful, enhanced organic market gardening and to have a meaningful, positive educational experience.
A refundable $500 bond is required. This bond ensures that abuse or negligence of tools does not occur and that participants adhere to the guidelines stated here including completion of the period of the internship.
Work Hours
Interns are expected to work a 5 days a week. Work times vary, but the typical working day starts early and includes 8 hours of work with a lunchtime break. Although there are daily tasks that occur 7 days a week, work can be flexible with a desire to make a schedule that works for the farm and an educational opportunity suited to the intern.
Intern Room and Board
Caravan accommodation is provided with a kitchen.
There is a separate, private bathroom with shower and toilet facilities.
We will provide you with our farm fresh produce and eggs as available. Interns are responsible for providing all other groceries.
Contact us. Send us a message today!
