Land-based Studies City & Guilds (NPTC) Diploma Level 1 (Horticulture Route)

You will need to have a good attendance record from school, with a Grade E in Maths or English Language, or equivalent qualifications at Entry Level 3. You may be home educated with a good record of consistent evaluation and improvement. A strong wish to work in horticulture is essential. You will be required to pass an interview and an initial assessment in order to be accepted onto the course. It is important to bring a reference from school or from someone who knows your capabilities (other than a family member) with you to the interview.

This is a one year course, during which time you will develop practical skills in identifying plants and their pests and diseases and propagating, establishing and maintaining plants and their growing places. You will work under the direct supervision of our Horticulture staff, who will guide you with both your practical and written work.

Employability skills are a vital part of this course and you will complete an additional qualification in Work Skills, alongside your Horticulture training. A practical work placement within the industry one day per week is highly recommended and theory work with assignments is included. Functional Skills in Maths, English and IT are also studied within the programme of learning.