Course Overview
Horticulture isn’t just about gardening: if you have a passion for plants and the outdoors, you could be designing and landscaping parks and sports grounds or developing a golf course. A qualification in horticulture could take you into production, growing and selling plants, or even studying and producing brand-new hybrid varieties. Home to a vast array of natural and man-made resources, Lackham’s 800-acre estate is the perfect place to study horticulture. From woodlands and wetlands to manicured lawns and sports pitches, including a Walled Garden with tropical and cold greenhouses, Lackham’s industry-leading resources are unparalleled, giving you the opportunity to pursue your passion, transforming skills and knowledge into a fulfilling career.
What will I learn?
You’ll be equipped with the skills for a wide variety of careers in horticulture, with practical activities reinforced by theory and academic learning.
You’ll learn how to name, identify and select plants as well as how to care for them. An essential part of a gardener’s skillset is the use and maintenance of machinery, and you’ll be trained by expert lecturers and our professional gardening team on how to use Lackham’s wide range of equipment.
You will learn how to develop hard landscapes, with opportunities to work on Lackham’s sports pitches and broader range of man-made environments, ensuring you have the experience to be flexible in your profession. Key modules in horticultural business practices offer invaluable experience when seeking employment or even to start your own business.
Study, Assessment and Qualifications
You’ll be assessed through written, practical and industry-based assignments throughout the course.
Your final qualification will be a City & Guilds Level 2 Technical Certificate in Horticulture.
Entry Requirements
• 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English, maths and science.
• An interview, if required.
Additional Costs and Information
Practical clothing is available to purchase from the College shop which must be worn during all practical sessions.
You will also need to purchase your own personal protective equipment. Please note that it is not necessary to make these purchases before the start of the course; when you join us, we will advise you on the best types to purchase.
Trips and visits are an important aspect of the programme, allowing you to appreciate the diverse range of career opportunities and organisations within the sector. You will be expected to cover the cost of trips and other enrichment activities via the College shop.
Your lecturer will recommend a small number of textbooks for use on this course. These are available in the College library, or you may wish to buy your own copies.
An Industry Placement is a fundamental part of this course and students are expected to complete 150 hours of work experience. An Industry Placement gives you the opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience for your future. You will be supported throughout your placement by our dedicated Work Placement Team.
